Accessory having a communication function for Internet of Things

ABSTRACT

An accessory includes a main body including a communication module that is configured to communicate with a predetermined network, and a container including a main body-coupling portion that is configured to separably couple to the main body. The main body includes at least one of (i) a remote control module that is configured to transmit an optical signal for controlling a predetermined apparatus within a predetermined range or (ii) a sensor module that is configured to sense information about a surrounding environment. The container includes an external coupling portion that is configured to couple the container to an external object.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of an earlier filing date and right of priority to U.S. Provisional application No. 62/341,566 filed on May 25, 2016, PCT Application No. PCT/KR2016/007314 filed on Jul. 6, 2016, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2016-0115243 filed on Sep. 7, 2016, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an accessory having a communication function, and more particularly to an accessory for communication including a communication module for transmitting and receiving a signal over a predetermined network and an apparatus and method for manufacturing the same.

BACKGROUND

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an intelligent technology and service for interconnecting things over the Internet to perform information communication between people and things and between things. For example, “information communication between things” means that apparatuses connected to the Internet transmit, receive, and process information without the intervention of people.

“Sensing technology” for sensing the surrounding circumstances (things or environments) to acquire information, “network technology” for interconnecting things to the Internet, and “service interface technology” for processing and providing information have been proposed as technologies for realizing the Internet of Things.

In the sensing technology, at least one selected from among environment sensors (e.g., a barometer, a hygrometer, a thermometer, a radioactivity sensor, a heat sensor, and a gas sensor), chemical sensors (e.g., an electronic nose, a health care sensor, and a biometric sensor), a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a gravity sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a remote sensor, an SAR, a radar, and optical sensors (e.g., a video sensor and an image sensor) may be included.

“Network technology” means interconnecting personal computers (PCs), various kinds of equipment and facilities, and portable terminals using various wired and/or wireless technologies. Ethernet, PLC, IEEE 1394, Home PNA, etc. are used as the wired technologies. IEEE 802.11. WLAN, IEEE 802.15 WPAN, UWB, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Z-wave, Bluetooth, etc. are used as the wireless technologies. In addition, a server for collecting various kinds of information and transmitting and receiving various kinds of signals may be included in the network.

The network environment may be applied to various spatial or service-dimensional concepts as well as homes and offices.

Various apparatuses having a function for transmitting and receiving information about apparatuses over networks have been developed. Particularly, in the home networking field, home electric appliances equipped with the Internet of Things function have been developed.

In some examples, apparatuses may include various kinds of input units. For example, a switch, among the input units, is pushed when vertical pressure is applied thereto. After the switch is pushed, it is necessary to return the switch to the original state thereof. In order to generate restoring force necessary to return the switch to the original state thereof, an elastic member, such as a spring, may be used.

SUMMARY

One way to implement a technology based on the Internet of Things (IoT) may be to replace conventional electric home appliances having no IoT functions with new electric home appliances having IoT functions and to reconfigure environments such that the Internet of Things is made possible. However, the replacement of electric home appliances may be expensive for users. In the case in which conventional electric home appliances having no IoT functions are not replaced with new electric home appliances having IoT functions, it may not be possible to use IoT technology. As a result, it may be difficult to easily and rapidly popularize IoT technology. It is a first object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory that is capable of enabling the realization of IoT functions without replacing conventional electric home appliances or reconfiguring environments.

To date, products having IoT functions have been based on individual standards proposed by manufacturers who manufacture the products having IoT functions, rather than based on unified standards. For this reason, the products are not compatible with each other, with the result that it is difficult to realize an IoT environment. It is a second object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory that is capable of enabling the realization of a desired IoT environment even in the case in which products having different IoT standards are used.

It is a third object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory having a function of obtaining information about an environment or an apparatus and a function of transmitting a desired command to the apparatus.

It is a fourth object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory the position of which can be easily changed as needed.

It is a fifth object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory configured such that, in the case in which the position and direction of the accessory are preset, the position and direction of the accessory can be easily recognized without additional effects when the accessory is detached from an apparatus and is then attached to the apparatus again.

It is a sixth object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory for obtaining information about a specific direction and transmitting an optical signal in the specific direction, wherein the specific direction can be easily preset.

It is a seventh object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory configured to be smoothly attached to an apparatus after having been detached from the apparatus while the strength of attachment of the accessory to the apparatus is maintained.

It is an eighth object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory having various kinds of parts to realize variable IoT environments as needed under various environments and conditions.

It is a ninth object of the present disclosure to provide an accessory configured such that in an environment having a plurality of apparatuses, the position of the accessory can be easily changed from one apparatus to another apparatus, and the setting of the accessory can be easily changed after the position of the accessory is changed.

According to one aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an accessory includes: a main body including a communication module that is configured to communicate with a predetermined network; and a container including a main body-coupling portion that is configured to separably couple to the main body. The main body includes at least one of a remote control module that is configured to transmit an optical signal for controlling a predetermined apparatus within a predetermined range or a sensor module that is configured to sense information about a surrounding environment. The container comprises an external coupling portion that is configured to couple the container to an external object.

Implementations according to this aspect may include one or more of following features. The main body may include the remote control module. The remote control module may include a control signal light-emitting unit that is configured to transmit the optical signal from the main body in a transmission direction, and the container may include a direction-setting portion that is configured, based on the container being coupled to the external object, to guide the main body to a set position in which the transmission direction is aligned to a predetermined direction.

In some implementations, the main body may include the sensor module. The sensor module may include a proximity sensor that is configured to sense a distance in a transmission direction between the main body and an object, and the container may include a direction-setting portion that is configured, based on the container being coupled to the external object, to guide the main body to a set position in which the transmission direction is aligned to a predetermined direction. In some examples, the container may include a direction-indicating portion that is configured to visually indicate the transmission direction.

In some implementations, the direction-setting portion may include a direction-setting protrusion or a direction-setting recess that is configured to receive the direction-setting protrusion, the main body may include one of the direction-setting protrusion and the direction-setting recess, and the container may include the other of the direction-setting protrusion and the direction-setting recess. The direction-setting protrusion may be configured to engage into the direction-setting recess based on the transmission direction being aligned to the predetermined direction, and the direction-setting protrusion may be offset from a central axis of the main body and the container.

In some implementations, the main body may include one of an attachment-detachment groove and an attachment-detachment protrusion, the attachment-detachment protrusion being configured to be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove based on the main body being coupled to the container, and the container may include the other of the attachment-detachment protrusion and the attachment-detachment groove. The attachment-detachment groove may extend in a circumferential direction of the main body or the container, and the attachment-detachment protrusion may include a first attachment-detachment protrusion disposed at a location opposite the direction-setting protrusion with respect to the central axis.

In some implementations, the first attachment-detachment protrusion may be configured, based on the direction-setting protrusion being disengaged from the direction-setting recess and the first attachment-detachment protrusion inserting into the attachment-detachment groove, to be slidable along the attachment-detachment groove in the circumferential direction by rotating the main body relative to the container about the central axis. The attachment-detachment protrusion may further include a second attachment-detachment protrusion that is configured, based on the direction-setting protrusion being engaged into the direction-setting recess, to insert into the attachment-detachment groove.

In some implementations, the main body may include one of an attachment-detachment groove and an attachment-detachment protrusion, the attachment-detachment protrusion being configured to be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove based on the main body being coupled to the container, the container includes the other of the attachment-detachment protrusion and the attachment-detachment groove, the attachment-detachment groove extends in a circumferential direction of the main body or the container, and the attachment-detachment protrusion may include a plurality of attachment-detachment protrusions arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

In some implementations, the main body may include the remote control module and the sensor module. The proximity sensor may include a proximity signal light-emitting unit that is configured to transmit a predetermined optical sensing signal in the transmission direction, and a proximity signal light-receiving unit that is configured to receive the optical sensing signal that has been reflected from the transmission direction. In some examples, the accessory may further include a reflector having a reflective surface that is configured to reflect the predetermined optical sensing signal, and an attachment surface configured to be coupled to a surface of an external object.

In some implementations, the accessory may further include a detachable waterproof member that is configured to seal a boundary that is defined between the main body and the container based on the main body being coupled to the container. The main body may have an upper edge that has a greater perimeter than the boundary, and the container may have a lower circumferential edge that has a greater perimeter than the boundary. The waterproof member may include a detachable elastic band that surrounds side surfaces between the upper edge of the main body and the lower edge of the container based on the main body being coupled to the container.

In some implementations, the side surface of the main body may be inclined in a first direction with respect to the central axis, the side surface becoming closer to the central axis from the upper edge of the main body toward the boundary, and the side surface of the container may be inclined in a second direction opposite the first direction with respect to the central axis, the side surface becoming closer to the central axis from the lower edge of the container toward the boundary.

In some implementations, the container may further include a plurality of containers configured to be coupled to predetermined external objects that are located at different positions from each other, and the sensor module may include a plurality of sensors that are configured to sense different target information from each other.

In some implementations, the main body may include a controller that is configured to perform a state change from a first state to a second state, and the controller may be configured, based on the controller being in the first state, to transmit a first target information sensed by a first sensor among the plurality of sensors over the predetermined network. The controller may be configured, based on the controller being in the second state, to transmit a second target information sensed by a second sensor among the plurality of sensors over the predetermined network.

In some implementations, the container may further include a plurality of containers configured to be coupled to predetermined external objects that are located at different positions from each other, and the main body may include a controller that is configured to control transmission of sensed information over the network and operation of the remote control module.

According to another aspect of the subject matter described in this application, an accessory includes: a main body including a communication module that is configured to communicate with a predetermined network; and a plurality of containers, each of the plurality of containers including a main body-coupling portion that is configured to separably couple to the main body, the main body being configured to selectably coupled to one of the plurality of containers. Each of the plurality of containers includes a direction-setting portion that is configured, based on the main body being coupled to the container, to set the main body to a predetermined position relative to the container.

According to another aspect of the subject matter described in this application, a network system includes a plurality of accessories that described above. The network system further includes a server that is configured to receive a first information from a first main body about a surrounding environment of the first main body, and to transmit a signal to a second main body to control an apparatus located at the second main body based on the received first information.

Implementations according to this aspect may include one or more of following features. The network system may include a third main body. In some examples, the server may be configured to receive a third information from a third body about a surrounding environment of the third main body, and to transmit a signal to the second main body to control the apparatus located at the second main body based on the received first information and third information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view showing an example network system.

FIG. 2 is a view showing another example network system.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example accessory including an example main body and an example container coupled to the example main body.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the main body of FIG. 3 at a different angle.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the container of FIG. 3 at a different angle.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line AB-AB′ of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing example functions of the main body of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example use of an example reflector.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an example waterproof member.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an example use of the waterproof member of FIG. 9.

FIGS. 11 to 16 are views showing example uses of the accessory of FIG. 3.

FIG. 17 is a conceptual view showing an example use in which an example main body is selectively attached to a plurality of example containers that are attached at a plurality of example positions.

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view showing the main body of FIG. 4.

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the main body of FIG. 18 at a different angle.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing an example switch panel of FIG. 18.

FIG. 21 is a sectional view taken along line A1-A1′ of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing an example switch operation unit of FIG. 18.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view showing the switch operation unit of FIG. 22 at a different angle.

FIG. 24 is a sectional view taken along line A2-A2′ of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing an example side case of FIG. 18 where example printed circuit boards (PCBs) are not coupled to the side case, but an example transmission member is coupled to the side case.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing the side case of FIG. 25 at a different angle.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the side case of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a sectional view taken along line A3-A3′ of FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing the example upper PCB coupled to the side case of FIG. 25.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing the side case and the upper PCB of FIG. 29 at a different angle.

FIG. 31 is a top view showing the side case and the upper PCB of FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing an example lower PCB of FIG. 18.

FIG. 33 is a bottom view showing the lower PCB of FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view showing the lower PCB coupled to the side case and the upper PCB of FIG. 29.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing the side case, the upper PCB, and the lower PCB of FIG. 34 at a different angle.

FIG. 36 is a vertical sectional view showing an example transmission member of the main body of FIG. 3.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view showing the transmission member of FIG. 18.

FIG. 38 is a horizontal sectional view of the transmission member of FIG. 18.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view showing an example bottom case of FIG. 18.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view showing the bottom case of FIG. 39 at a different angle.

FIG. 41 is a top view of the bottom case of FIG. 39.

FIG. 42 is a sectional view taken along line A7-A7′ of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is an exploded perspective view showing the container of FIG. 5.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing the container of FIG. 5 at a different angle.

FIG. 45 is a top view of the container of FIG. 5.

FIGS. 46A and 46B are sectional views showing the container of FIG. 45.

FIG. 46A is a sectional view taken along line B1-B1′.

FIG. 46B is a sectional view taken along line B2-B2′.

FIGS. 46C and 46D are sectional views showing another example configuration of the container of FIG. 45.

FIG. 46C is a sectional view taken along line B1-B1′.

FIG. 46D is a sectional view taken along line B2-B2′.

FIG. 47 is a vertical sectional view showing an example injection-molding machine (mold) used in an example process in which an example container body of FIG. 43 is injection-molded.

FIG. 48 is a sectional view showing only the main body of FIG. 6 without the container.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view showing an example upper edge and an example lower edge of the main body of FIG. 48.

FIGS. 50 to 52 are conceptual side views showing the main body of FIG. 48 in a position where the main body can roll on a horizontal plane.

FIG. 50 is a view showing a state in which only the upper edge of the main body contacts the ground.

FIG. 51 is a view showing another state in which the lower edge of the main body contacts the ground.

FIG. 52 is a view showing an example position of an example battery in FIG. 50.

FIG. 53 is a conceptual view showing example imaginary tracks formed by the upper edge and the lower edge of the main body on the horizontal plane when the main body is overturned and rolling along the horizontal plane.

FIG. 54 is a bottom view of the main body of FIG. 4, without the bottom case.

FIGS. 55A and 55B are conceptual views showing example directions in which torque is applied depending on the eccentric position of the battery when the main body rolls on the ground.

FIG. 56 is a view showing example diameters and dimensions of the accessories of FIG. 6.

FIG. 57 is a view showing the upper edge of the main body (E1), a lower edge of the container (E3), and an upper edge of the container (E4) of the accessories of FIG. 56.

FIG. 58 is a conceptual side view showing an example position of the accessories of FIG. 57 where the accessories are overturned and can roll on the horizontal plane.

FIG. 59 is a conceptual view showing example imaginary tracks formed by the upper edge of the main body and the lower edge of the container on the horizontal plane when the accessories are overturned and rolling along the horizontal plane.

FIGS. 60A and 60B are vertical sectional views showing part Z of FIG. 28 in injection-molding machines (molds) used in an example process in which the side case of FIG. 28 is injection-molded.

FIG. 60A illustrates a parting line of an example injection-molding machine located on an outer corner of the upper end of the side member.

FIG. 60B illustrates a parting line of another example injection-molding machine located on an inner corner of the upper end of the side member.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view showing the injection-molding machine used for the side case of FIG. 60B.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view showing the injection-molding machine of FIG. 61 without an example upper injection-molding unit.

FIG. 63 is a perspective view showing the injection-molding machine of FIG. 62 in a state in which one of the side injection-molding units is removed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, the terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” and “lower,” which indicate directions, are defined as shown in FIG. 3. However, these definitions are given only for clear understanding of the present disclosure, and the directions may be differently defined depending on the circumstances.

In FIG. 3, a central axis X means an imaginary vertical axis passing through the center of an accessory 2A and 2B, a direction that becomes distant from the central axis X is defined as a direction XO outward from the axis, a direction that becomes close to the central axis X is defined as a direction XI inward toward the axis, and a direction that rotates about the central axis X is defined as a circumferential direction. However, these definitions are given only for clear understanding of the present disclosure, and the directions may be differently defined depending on the circumstances.

A network may include an accessory 2 having a communication function and a hub 1 communicating with the accessory 2. Hereinafter, a home network will be described as an example of the network. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

FIG. 1 is a view showing an example home network.

Referring to FIG. 1, the home network system may include accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b, a gateway 4, an access point 7, and a hub 1, which transmit information to each other through a wired or wireless network. In addition, the home network system may further include a server 8 and a terminal 6.

The network may be configured based on Wi-Fi, Ethernet, ZigBee, Z-wave, or Bluetooth. The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b, the gateway 4, the access point 7, and the hub 1 may have communication modules that can access the network according to a predetermined protocol.

The communication modules included in the respective devices 2, 3 a, 3 b, 4, 7, and 1 constituting the network system are set based on the configuration of the network. Each device may include a plurality of communication modules based on the communication scheme between the devices and the network and between the devices.

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b each include at least one communication module for access to the network. The communication module communicates with a predetermined network. The communication of the communication module with the predetermined network means that the communication module communicates with at least one of the gateway 4, the access point 7, the hub 1, the server 8, and the terminal 6, which constitute the network.

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b may each include a sensor module for sensing the surrounding circumstances. The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b may each include a control module that exhibits a specific function affecting the surrounding circumstances. The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b may each include a remote control module 25 for transmitting an optical signal (e.g., an infrared signal) for controlling predetermined surrounding apparatuses.

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b including the sensor modules may each be a device including an atmosphere sensor, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, a radioactivity sensor, a heat sensor, a gas sensor, an air quality sensor, an electronic nose sensor, a health care sensor, a biometric sensor, a sleep sensor (e.g., a sensor for sensing snoring, sleep apnea, and tossing of a user while the user sleeps in the state in which the sensor is attached to the pajamas or underwear of the user), a proximity sensor, an illumination sensor, an acceleration sensor, a magnetic sensor, a gravity sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a motion sensor, an RGB sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a remote sensor, an SAR, a radar, or an optical sensor (e.g., a video sensor or an image sensor).

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b including the control modules may each be a smart light for controlling lighting, a smart plug for controlling the application and intensity of electric power, a smart temperature controller for controlling whether or not to operate a boiler or an air conditioner and the operation level of the boiler or the air conditioner, or a smart gas lock for controlling whether or not to interrupt gas.

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b including the remote control modules may each be a device including an infrared LED for transmitting an infrared (IR) signal to a remote-controllable electric home appliance.

The accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b may be configured to have predetermined purposes so as to exhibit predetermined performance. For example, the accessory 3 a may be an image camera, and the accessory 3 b may be a smart plug.

In some implementations, the accessory 2 may be configured so as to be installed at a position desired by a user. In addition, the accessory 2 may be configured to be used for various purposes. For example, the accessory 2 may be attached to an external object, such as an electric home appliance, a door, a window, or a wall. Detailed example uses of the accessory 2 will be described hereinafter.

The gateway 4 enables one or more accessories 2 and 3 b to communicate with the access point 7. The gateway 4 communicates with the accessory 2 in a wireless fashion. The gateway 4 communicates with the access point 7 in a wired or wireless fashion. For example, the communication between the gateway 4 and the access point 7 may be based on Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

The access point 7 may be connected to the server 8 through wired or wireless communication. The server 8 may be accessible over the Internet. Various terminals 6 connected to the Internet may communicate with the server 8. For example, the terminal 6 may be a personal computer (PC) or a mobile terminal such as a smart phone.

The accessories 2 and 3 b may be configured to communicate with the gateway 4. In another example, the accessory 3 a may be configured to communicate with the access point 7 directly, rather than via the gateway 4.

The access point 7 may be configured to communicate with the accessory 3 a or with another device 5 including a communication module directly, rather than via the gateway 4. The devices 5 and 3 a may each include a Wi-Fi communication module, through which the devices 5 and 3 a can communicate with the access point 7 directly, rather than via the gateway 4.

The hub 1 may be connected to the access point 7 through wired communication (e.g., Ethernet) or wireless communication (e.g., Wi-Fi). Communication between the hub 1 and the accessories 2 and 3 b may be performed via the gateway 4 and the access point 7. In another example, communication between the hub 1 and the accessory 3 a or the device 5 may be performed via the access point 7.

For example, signals from the accessories 2 and 3 b may be transmitted to the hub 1 via the gateway 4 and the access point 7 in turn, and a signal from the hub 1 may be transmitted to the accessories 2 and 3 b via the access point 7 and the gateway 4 in turn. In another example, a signal from the accessory 3 a or the device 5 may be transmitted to the hub 1 via the access point 7, and a signal from the hub 1 may be transmitted to the accessory 3 a or the device 5 via the access point 7.

For example, information acquired by a sensor module 24 of each of the accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b may be transmitted to the server 8, the terminal 6, or the hub 1 over the network. In addition, a signal for controlling the sensor module, the control module, or the remote control module from the server 8, the terminal 6, or the hub 1 may be transmitted to the accessory 2. The signals are transmitted via the gateway 4 and/or the access point 7.

Communication between the accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b and the hub 1 may be performed based only on the gateway 4 and the access point 7. For example, even in the case in which the home network is not connected to an external communication network such as the Internet, communication between the accessories 2, 3 a, and 3 b and the hub 1 may still be performed.

In the case in which the hub 1 is connected to the server 8 via the access point 7, information transmitted from the hub 1 or the accessory 2 may be stored in the server 8. The information stored in the server 8 may be received by the terminal 6 connected to the server 8.

In some examples, information transmitted from the terminal 7 may be transmitted to the hub 1 or the accessory 2 via the server 8. A smart phone, which is a terminal that has been widely used in recent years, provides a graphic-based user interface (UI). Consequently, the accessory 2 may be controlled, or information received from the accessory 2 may be processed and displayed through the UI. In addition, an application installed in the smart phone may be updated so as to extend the range of functions that can be performed by the accessory 2.

In some implementations, the terminal 6 and the hub 1 may communicate with each other directly without the involvement of the server 8. For example, the terminal 6 and the hub 1 may communicate with each other directly via Bluetooth.

In some implantations, the accessory 2 may be controlled or information received from the accessory 2 may be processed and displayed using only the hub 1 without using the terminal 6. To this end, the hub 1 may include an input unit for receiving a command for controlling the accessory 2 and a visual or auditory output means (e.g., a display or a speaker) for displaying the process information. The input unit of the hub 1 may include various buttons, a touch-type display, or a microphone. In the case in which the hub includes a microphone, the controller of the hub may recognize the user's voice input through the microphone and extract a command therefrom.

FIG. 2 is a view showing an example home network system.

The home network system may be substantially identical to the home network system according to the previous embodiment except that the gateway 4 is not provided, and the hub 1 also performs the functions that the gateway 4 performs.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 10, an example accessory 2 may include a main body 2A having a communication module 26 for communicating with a predetermined network and a container 2B having a main body-coupling portion 280 a to which the main body 2A is detachably attached. In the case in which the main body 2A includes a proximity sensor 244, the accessory 2 may further include a reflector 2C for reflecting an optical signal (e.g., an infrared signal) transmitted by a proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 of the proximity sensor 244. The accessory 2 may further include a waterproof member 2D separably detached to an apparatus to which the main body 2A and the container 2B are coupled.

The main body 2A, the container 2B, the reflector 2C, and the waterproof member 2D are separate members, which may be variably combined depending on the purpose desired by a user. The main body 2A, the container 2B, the reflector 2C, and the waterproof member 2D may be provided in different numbers.

The functional configuration of the main body 2A will be described with reference to FIG. 7. The main body 2A may include a controller 23 for controlling at least one function of the main body 2A. In some cases, the controller 23 may be provided in the server 8, the terminal 6, or the hub 1. In this case, the subject matter described in the present disclosure may be implemented over a network.

The main body 2A may include a sensor module 24 for sensing predetermined surrounding circumstances. The “predetermined surrounding circumstances” means information which can be determined based on the type of the sensor provided in the main body 2A, which is information about the surroundings of the main body 2A or information about a specific direction (e.g., transmission direction) relative to the main body 2A.

The sensor module 24 may include a plurality of sensors for sensing different kinds of targets. The targets may include atmosphere, temperature and humidity, radioactivity, heat, gas, air quality, electronic elements, various biometric elements, various sleep elements, proximity, illumination, acceleration, magnetism, gravity, motion, infrared (IR) light, ultrasonic waves, video, and images that can be sensed by the sensors.

In some implementations, the sensor module 24 may include a proximity sensor 244 for sensing the proximity of the main body 2A to an external object in a specific direction. The sensor module 24 may include a temperature and humidity sensor 245. In this specification, the temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be any one selected from among a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a temperature and humidity sensor. The sensor module 24 may include an acceleration sensor 257 for sensing the movement or vibration of the main body 2A.

The main body 2A may include a remote control module 25 for transmitting an optical signal for controlling predetermined surrounding apparatuses. The “predetermined surrounding apparatuses” may be predetermined remote-controllable apparatuses. For example, the predetermined surrounding apparatuses may include a washing machine, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a robot cleaner, and a TV that can be controlled by a remote controller.

The remote control module 25 includes a control signal light-emitting unit 243 for emitting a predetermined optical signal, for controlling a predetermined surrounding apparatus, in a specific direction from the main body 2A. For example, the control signal light-emitting unit 243 may be an LED for emitting infrared light.

The main body 2A may include at least one selected from between the sensor module 24 and the remote control module 25. The main body 2A may include both the sensor module 24 and the remote control module 25. In this case, a user may use the main body 2A more flexibly when required.

The main body 2A may include a communication module 26 for communicating with a predetermined network. The communication module 26 may be changed depending on the communication scheme of a device with which the communication module 26 will communicate directly. Information acquired by the sensor module 24 may be transmitted over the network through the communication module 26. The main body 2A may receive information over the network through the communication module 26, and the sensor module 24, the remote control module 25, an output unit 28, or a storage unit 29, may be controlled based on the received information.

The main body 2A may include an input unit 27 for allowing a user to input a command directly, rather than via the communication module 26.

The input unit 27 may be a power switch for turning ON/OFF the main body 2A.

The input unit 27 may include a main switch 242 for setting the functions of the main body 2A, pairing of the main body 2A with a predetermined network, or pairing of the main body 2A with the terminal 6 or the hub 1. The main body 2A may be preset such that various commands are input to the main body 2A through a combination of the time for which the main switch 242 is pushed and/or the number of times the main switch 242 is pushed in succession.

The input unit 27 may include a reset button 252 for resetting the preset functions of the main body 2A. Previous pairing settings or information stored in the storage unit 29 may be reset by pushing the reset button 252.

The main body 2A may include a storage unit 29 for storing information acquired by the sensor module 24. The storage unit may store information received through the communication module 26 over the network N. The storage unit 29 may store commands from the input unit 27.

The main body 2A may include a power supply device 254 for supplying power to the components of the main body 2A. The power supply device 254 may include a battery 2541. The battery 2541 may be provided for the purpose of charging.

The controller 23 may receive control information from the input unit 27. The controller 23 may control the output unit 28 to output predetermined information.

The controller 23 may control the communication module 26. The controller 23 may control the communication module 26 based on the control information received from the input unit 27. The controller 23 may perform control such that information received through the communication module 26 over the network is stored in the storage unit 29. The controller 23 may perform control such that information stored in the storage unit 29 is transmitted through the communication module 26 over the network.

The controller 23 may control whether or not to operate the sensor module 24. The controller 23 may control whether or not to operate the sensor module 24 based on the control information received through the communication module 26 over the network. The controller 23 may control the sensor module 24 based on the control information received from the input unit 27. The controller 23 may control the sensor module 24 based on the control information stored in the storage unit 29. The controller may perform control such that information about the surrounding circumstances, sensed by the sensor module 24, is stored in the storage unit 29. The controller 23 may perform control such that the information about the surrounding circumstances, sensed by the sensor module 24, is transmitted through the communication module 26 over the network.

The controller 23 may control whether or not to transmit the information about the surrounding circumstances over the network. The information about the surrounding circumstances is predetermined information sensed under predetermined surrounding circumstances. The controller 23 may control whether or not the sensor module 24 is to sense information about the surrounding circumstances. Even when the sensor module 24 senses information about the surrounding circumstances, the controller 23 may control whether or not to transmit the sensed information about the surrounding circumstances over the network.

The controller 23 may perform control such that the type of the target transmitted over the network is changed. For example, the controller 23 may perform control such that a state change is performed from a first state in which a first target (e.g., proximity information) is sensed and information about the first target is transmitted over the network to a second state in which a second target (e.g., temperature and humidity) is sensed and information about the second target is transmitted over the network. In another example, the controller 23 may perform control such that a state change is performed from a third state in which a first target and a second target are sensed and only information about the first target is transmitted over the network to a fourth state in which a first target and a second target are sensed and only information about the second target is transmitted over the network.

The controller 23 may control whether or not to operate the remote control module 25. The controller 23 may control whether or not to operate the remote control module 25 based on control information received through the communication module 26 over the network. The controller 23 may control the remote control module 25 based on the control information received from the input unit 27. The controller 23 may control the remote control module 25 based on the control information stored in the storage unit 29.

The controller 23 may control whether or not to operate the remote control module 25. The controller 23 may perform control so as to change whether or not to operate the remote control module 25. For example, the controller 23 may perform control such that a state change is performed from a fifth state, in which the remote control module 25 is not operated, to a sixth state, in which the remote control module 25 is operated.

In the above description, the terms “first state,” “second state,” “third state,” “fourth state,” “fifth state,” and “sixth state” are used only to avoid confusion between designated objects, and do not indicate the sequence or importance of the states.

Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the main body 2A and the container 2B are separably coupled to each other. The main body-coupling portion 280 a may protrude such that a portion of the main body 2A is coupled to the main body-coupling portion 280 a. In this case, the main body-coupling portion 280 a is a depressed receiving space. The main body-coupling portion 280 a may be provided in the upper side of the container 2B.

The main body 2A includes an exposed portion 201, which is exposed in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, and an insertion portion 202, which is received in the main body-coupling portion 280 a.

The exposed portion 201 is formed at the upper side of the main body 2A. The exposed portion 201 includes a side surface exposed in a direction XO outward from the axis and a top surface exposed to the upper side.

A switch panel 210, an opening 231 b (e.g., a sensor hole) or a transmission member 260 for the sensor module 24, or a transmission member 260 for the remote control module 25 is disposed in the exposed portion 201. Even in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, a user may contact the switch panel 210 of the main body 2A. Even in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the sensor module 24 or the remote control module 25 may be operated smoothly.

In this case, the transmission member 260 and/or the sensor hole 231 b is formed at the side surface of the exposed portion 201. The transmission member 260 and the sensor hole 231 b may be disposed in opposite directions. The transmission member 260 may be disposed at the front surface of the exposed portion 201, and the sensor hole 231 b may be disposed at the rear surface of the exposed portion 201. In addition, the switch panel 210 may be disposed at the top surface of the exposed portion 201. A user may push the switch panel 210 downward from above.

The side surface of the exposed portion 201 may be an inclined surface that becomes gradually closer to the central axis X in the downward direction. The side surface of the exposed portion 201 may be an inclined surface that becomes gradually further away from the central axis X in the upward direction. The side surface of the exposed portion 201 may be a truncated conical surface. A side member 231 of a side case 230, a description of which will follow, defines the side surface of the exposed portion 201.

An upper edge E1 of the main body 2A may be formed in a circular shape having a predetermined upper diameter. The upper edge E1 of the main body 2A may define the upper edge E1 of the exposed portion 201.

When the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the lower end of the exposed portion 201 may contact the upper end of the container 2B. The lower end of the exposed portion 201 may contact the upper end of the main body-coupling portion 280 a. The lower edge of the exposed portion 201 may be circular. The diameter of the lower edge of the exposed portion 201 may be smaller than the upper diameter.

The side surface of the exposed portion 201 includes an inclined surface, constituted by a set of lines interconnecting the upper edge of the exposed portion 201 and the lower edge of the exposed portion 201 by the shortest route. The side surface of the exposed portion 201 is an inclined surface that is oblique relative to the vertical direction, in which the upper edge of the exposed portion 201 and the lower edge of the exposed portion 201 are connected to each other.

The top surface of the exposed portion 201 may be dome-shaped. The top surface of the exposed portion 201 may include an upper side surface of the switch panel 210. The switch panel 210 may be formed in a circular shape having a diameter less than the upper diameter when viewed from above. For example, the side surface of the exposed portion 201 may be defined by a wall having a predetermined thickness, and the switch panel 210 may be disposed in a space surrounded by the side surface of the exposed portion 201, which is defined in a direction XI inward toward the axis at the upper end of the exposed portion 201. The switch panel 210 may be coupled to a switch operation unit 220, a description of which will follow, such that the switch panel 210 is movable upward and downward.

The insertion portion 202 is formed at the lower part of the main body 2A. The insertion portion 202 includes a side surface exposed in the direction XO outward from the axis and a lower surface exposed to the lower side.

The insertion portion 202 is received in the main body-coupling portion 280 a such that the main body 2A and the container 2B are coupled to each other. The insertion portion 202 may be inserted into the main body-coupling portion 280 a from above the container 2B.

The main body 2A may include a battery 2541 for charging. In this case, the main body 2A is provided with a charging terminal 255. The charging terminal 255 may be formed at the side surface of the insertion portion 202. The accessory 2 is configured such that the charging terminal 255 connected to the battery 2541 is exposed when the main body 2A is separated from the container 2B.

The main body 2A may include a reset button 252. The main body 2A is configured such that the reset button 252 is exposed when the main body 2A is separated from the container 2B.

The insertion portion 202 may be provided with a direction-setting recess 270 a, a description of which will follow. The direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in one side of the lower edge of the insertion portion 202. The direction-setting recess 270 a is defined by a depression 2711 in the insertion portion 202.

The insertion portion 202 may be provided with an attachment-detachment groove 231 d, a description of which will follow. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d extends along the circumference of the insertion portion 202 in the circumferential direction. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d may extend in a circular shape. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in the side surface of the insertion portion 202 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d is depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis.

In this case, the charging terminal 255 is formed at the lower side of the sensor hole 231 b. The reset button 252 may be formed on the surface in which the attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed.

The edge of the main body-coupling portion 280 a may be circular, and the insertion portion 202, which is inserted into the main body-coupling portion 280 a, may be generally cylindrical. The side surface of the insertion portion 202 in the direction XO outward from the axis and the lower surface of the insertion portion 202 in the downward direction are connected to each other in a round shape. The direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in one side of the round portion of the side surface and the lower surface of the insertion portion 202.

The lower surface of the insertion portion 202 defines the lower surface of the main body 2A. The lower surface of the main body 2A has an area less than the area defined by the upper edge of the main body 2A. The lower surface of the main body 2A is configured to overlap the area defined by the upper edge of the main body 2A when viewed from below.

The lower surface of the main body 2A may be generally circular. The diameter of the lower surface of the main body 2A may be smaller than the upper diameter of the main body 2A.

The side surface of the insertion portion 202 may include an inclined surface, which is inclined in the same direction as the side surface of the exposed portion 201. The side surface of the insertion portion 202 may be a truncated conical surface.

The side surface of the main body 2A in the direction XO outward from the axis includes the side surface of the exposed portion 201 and the side surface of the insertion portion 202. The side surface of the main body 2A may include a partially stepped portion. The side surface of the main body 2A may include a surface having a recess.

The container 2B includes an outer portion 205, which is exposed outward when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, and an inner portion 206, which defines the main body-coupling portion 280 a.

The inner portion 206 of the container 2B may be depressed. The inner portion 206 of the container 2B may be depressed downward. The inner portion 206 may be depressed downward from the upper middle of the container 2B.

The inner portion 206 includes an inner surface 281 of a container body 280, a description of which will follow, and an inwardly exposed surface 292 a of a container side member 290, a description of which will follow. The inner surface 281 includes a bottom portion 281 a, which defines the bottom of the main body-coupling portion 280 a and an inclined portion 281 b, which is inclined upward from the bottom portion 281 a in the direction XO outward from the axis. The inclined portion 281 b may be formed such that the inclination of the inclined portion 281 b becomes steeper from the bottom portion 281 a in the direction XO outward from the axis. The bottom portion 281 a may be circular when viewed from above. The inclined portion 281 b may extend such that the inclination of the inclined portion 281 b becomes steeper in the direction XO outward from the axis. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a may be disposed at the upper side of the inclined portion 281 b. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a may be formed further inward than the inclined portion 281 b in the direction XO outward from the axis. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a may be formed at a position further away from the central axis X than the inclined portion 281 b.

The inner portion 206 of the container 2B may be provided with a direction-setting protrusion 285, which is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a. The direction-setting protrusion 285 is disposed at a position distant from the central axis X. The direction-setting protrusion 285 is defined by a portion of the inclined portion 281 b that protrudes.

The inner portion 206 of the container 2B may be provided with an attachment-detachment protrusion 298, which is inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The attachment-detachment protrusion 298 may be disposed at the upper circumference of the inner portion 206. The attachment-detachment protrusion 298 is disposed at the upper side of the inclined portion 281 b. The attachment-detachment protrusion 298 may extend along the circumference of the inner portion 206. In this example, a plurality of attachment-detachment protrusions 298 is disposed along the circumference of the inner portion 206 in the state of being spaced apart from each other. The attachment-detachment protrusions 298 may be arranged at uniform intervals. The attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are formed on the surface of the inner portion 206 in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The attachment-detachment protrusions 298 protrude in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The attachment-detachment protrusions 298 may be formed on the inwardly exposed surface 292 a.

The outer portion 205 includes a side surface in the direction XO outward from the axis and a bottom surface in the downward direction. The side surface of the outer portion 205 may be an outward surface 291, a description of which will follow.

The outward surface 291 may define an inclined surface that becomes gradually closer to the central axis X in the upward direction. The outward surface 291 may be a truncated conical surface.

The upper edge of the container 2B may be an upper edge of the outer portion 205, and the lower edge of the container 2B may be a lower edge of the outer portion 205. The lower edge of the container 2B may be formed in a circular shape having a predetermined lower diameter.

When the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the upper end of the outer portion 205 contacts the lower end of the exposed portion 201 of the main body 2A. The lower edge of the exposed portion 201 may be circular. The upper edge of the outer portion 205 may be circular. The upper edge of the outer portion 205 may be formed in a circular shape having an upper diameter less than the lower diameter of the container 2B.

The lower edge of the container 2B may be formed in a circular shape having a predetermined lower diameter different from the upper diameter of the main body 2A. The lower diameter of the container 2B may be greater than the upper diameter of the main body 2A.

The outward surface 291 may be constituted by a set of lines interconnecting the upper edge of the outer portion 205 and the lower edge of the outer portion 205 by the shortest route. The side surface of the outer portion 205 is an inclined surface that is oblique relative to the vertical direction in which the upper edge of the container 2B and the lower edge of the container 2B are connected to each other.

When viewed from below, the middle part of the bottom surface of the outer portion 205 may be a horizontal surface 283, and the edge part of the bottom surface of the outer portion 205 may be an inclined surface 283 a. The inclined surface 283 a is formed such that the height of the inclined surface 283 a is gradually increased in the direction XO outward from the axis. That is, when the bottom surface of the outer portion 205 contacts an external plane, only the horizontal surface 283 of the bottom surface of the outer portion 205 contacts the external plane.

The container 2B includes an external coupling portion 283. The horizontal surface 283 includes an external coupling portion 283, which is formed so as to be attached to an external object. The external coupling portion 283 is provided at the lower side of the container 2B. The external coupling portion 283 may be attached to one surface of an external object. The external coupling portion 283 is attached to an external object, such as the surface of an external apparatus, a wall, a door, a window, or a ceiling, to support the container 2B or the accessory 2, to which the container 2B and the main body 2A are coupled. The external coupling portion 283 may include a sticker or a material having attachment force. The external coupling portion 283 may be attached to one surface of an external object such that the external coupling portion 283 can be detached from the external object.

The remote control module 25 includes a control signal light-emitting unit 243 for emitting an optical signal in a specific direction from the main body 2A. In the case in which the main body 2A includes the control signal light-emitting unit 243, the container 2B includes a direction-setting portion for guiding the main body 2A such that the specific direction is set to a predetermined direction when the container 2B is attached to an external object.

The sensor module 24 may include a proximity sensor 244 for sensing the proximity of the main body 2A to an external object in a specific direction. The container 2B includes a direction-setting portion for guiding the main body 2A such that the specific direction is set to a predetermined direction when the container 2B is attached to an external object.

For example, the specific direction is set when the container 2B is attached to an external object, and even in the case in which the main body 2A is separated from the container 2B and is then coupled to the container 2B again, the specific direction of the control signal light-emitting unit 243 or the proximity sensor 244 is uniformly set by the direction-setting portion.

When the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the direction-setting portion sets the direction in which the main body 2A is disposed relative to the container 2B. For example, when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the direction-setting portion sets the direction in which the main body 2A is disposed relative to the container 2B in the specific direction.

The container 2B may include a direction-indicating portion 289 for visually indicating the specific direction. The direction-indicating portion 289 may be formed at the inner portion 206 of the container 2B. The direction-indicating portion 289 may be a printed mark, a relief mark, or an intaglio mark. The direction-indicating portion 289, the direction-setting portion 285 and 270 a, and the proximity sensor 244 are disposed such that the direction indicated by the direction-indicating portion 289 becomes the specific direction. In addition, the direction-indicating portion 289, the direction-setting portion 285 and 270 a, and the control signal light-emitting unit 243 are disposed such that the direction indicated by the direction-indicating portion 289 becomes the specific direction.

Even when the container 2B, to which the main body 2A is not coupled, is attached to an external object, the user may preset the specific direction through the direction-indicating portion 289. In the case in which the container 2B is attached to an external object in the direction indicated by the direction-indicating portion 289, the specific direction is set to the direction indicated by the direction-indicating portion 289 when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B.

The direction-setting portion includes a direction-setting protrusion 285 and a direction-setting recess 270 a. The main body 2A includes one selected from between the direction-setting protrusion 285 and the direction-setting recess 270 a, and the container 2B includes the other selected from between the direction-setting protrusion 285 and the direction-setting recess 270 a. In the state in which the specific direction is set to the predetermined direction, the direction-setting protrusion 285 is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a. In this example, the direction-setting protrusion 285 is formed on the container 2B, and the direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in the main body 2A.

The direction-setting protrusion 285 may be dome-shaped.

The attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in one selected from between the main body 2A and the container 2B, and the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are formed on the other selected from between the main body 2A and the container 2B.

The attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in one of the main body 2A and the container 2B in which the direction-setting recess 270 a is formed, and the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are formed on the other of the main body 2A and the container 2B on which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is formed. In this example, the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are formed on the container 2B, and the attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in the main body 2A.

When the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d. When the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 are inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d such that the main body 2A is fixed to the container 2B.

The attachment-detachment groove 231 d extends in the circumferential direction. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d may extend in a circular shape. In the case in which the attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in the main body 2A, the attachment-detachment groove 231 d extends along the outer circumference of the main body 2A so as to be depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis. In the case in which the attachment-detachment groove is formed in the container 2B, the attachment-detachment groove extends along the inner circumference of the container 2B so as to be depressed in the direction XO outward from the axis.

In the case in which the attachment-detachment groove 231 d extends in the circumferential direction and the direction-setting protrusion 285 is not provided, the main body 2A is movable relative to the container 2B in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. In the case in which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is provided, the main body 2A is movable relative to the container 2B in the state in which the main body 2A is incompletely coupled to the container 2B, a detailed description of which will follow.

The direction-setting protrusion 285 is disposed so as to be eccentric from the central axis X in one direction (e.g., in the direction XO outward from the axis). In this case, the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 include a first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a disposed opposite to the direction-setting protrusion 285 about the central axis X (see FIG. 45). Even when the insertion portion 202 of the main body 2A and the inner surface of the inner portion 206 of the container 2B are spaced apart from each other by the direction-setting protrusion 285 in the state in which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is not engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a, therefore, the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a may be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d. The first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a, inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d, is movable along the attachment-detachment groove 231 d. As the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a is moved along the attachment-detachment groove 231 d, the main body 2A is rotated in the state in which the main body 2A is not completely coupled to the container 2B. As the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a is moved along the attachment-detachment groove 231 d, the main body 2A is rotated relative to the container 2B until the direction-setting protrusion 285 is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a.

For example, in the state in which until the direction-setting protrusion 285 is not engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a, the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a may be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d such that the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a can slide in the circumferential direction. When the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a slides along the circular attachment-detachment groove 231 d, the main body 2A may be rotated in the state of being inclined with respect to the container 2B.

The attachment-detachment protrusions 298 include a second attachment-detachment protrusion 298 b, which can be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d only in the state in which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a. When the main body 2A is pushed downward at the position at which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a after the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a slides along the circular attachment-detachment groove 231 d, the second attachment-detachment protrusion 298 b is engaged into the attachment-detachment groove 231 d. The main body 2A is fixed to the container 2B by the second attachment-detachment protrusion 298 b in the state in which the direction-setting protrusion 285 is engaged into the direction-setting recess 270 a.

A plurality of second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b may be arranged in the circumferential direction at intervals. The second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b may be arranged at uniform intervals. One of the second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b may be disposed at the same side as the direction-setting protrusion 285 with respect to the central axis X.

In this example, the direction-setting protrusion 285 is disposed at the left side, the first attachment-detachment protrusion 298 a is disposed at the right side, and the second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b are disposed at the left side, the front side, and the rear side. A larger number of second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b than the number of second attachment-detachment protrusions 298 b may be provided.

Each of the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 may be hook-shaped. The vertical length of each of the attachment-detachment protrusions 298 may be greater than the circumferential length of each of the attachment-detachment protrusions 298.

Referring to FIG. 8, the proximity sensor 244 may include a proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 for emitting a predetermined optical signal Ira in the specific direction and a proximity signal light-receiving unit 2442 for receiving an optical signal Irb reflected in the specific direction (See FIG. 31). The accessory 2 may further include a reflector 2C for reflecting the emitted optical signal Ira.

The reflector 2C includes a reflective surface 2C1 for reflecting the emitted optical signal Ira and an attachment surface 2C2 configured to be attachable to an external object. The reflective surface 2C1 of the reflector 2C may be formed of a material exhibiting high reflectance. The attachment surface 2C2 of the reflector 2C may be detachably attached to one surface of an external object.

In some implementations, the optical signal Ira emitted by the proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 may be infrared light. The proximity signal light-receiving unit 2442 may sense the intensity of the optical signal Irb reflected by the reflector or the external object to determine whether the accessory 2 has approached the external object or the reflector.

In the case in which it is sensed whether the door 71 is open or closed using the proximity sensor 244, the reflector 2C may also be used, which will be described with reference to FIG. 15.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the accessory 2 includes an example detachable waterproof member 2D for sealing a boundary between the main body 2A and the container 2B in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The waterproof member 2D may be used in the case in which the accessory 2 is placed in an environment having high humidity or in an environment in which the accessory 2 easily contacts water.

In some implementations, the waterproof member 2D may seal the boundary between the main body 2A and the container 2B. The waterproof member 2D may prevent water from permeating into the charging terminal 255, which is located at the insertion portion 202, though the boundary between the main body 2A and the container 2B.

In the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the boundary between the main body 2A and the container 2B may define an edge that has a smaller perimeter than the upper edge of the main body 2A and the lower edge of the container 2B.

The side surface of the exposed portion 201 of the main body 2A may be an inclined surface that becomes gradually closer to the central axis X in the downward direction, and the side surface of the outer portion 205 of the container 2B may be an inclined surface that becomes gradually closer to the central axis X in the upward direction.

The upper edge of the main body 2A may be circular, and the lower edge of the container 2B may be circular. In the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, the boundary between the main body 2A and the container 2B may be formed in a circular shape smaller than the upper edge of the main body 2A and the lower edge of the container 2B.

In this case, the waterproof member 2D may include an elastic band covering between the upper edge of the main body 2A and the lower edge of the container 2B in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The elastic band may be detachably attached to the assembly of the main body 2A and the container 2B.

In some cases, the waterproof member 2D is caught between the upper edge of the main body 2A and the lower edge of the container 2B, whereby the waterproof member 2D is easily disposed. In addition, the upper end and the lower end of the waterproof member 2D tightly contact the side surface of the main body 2A and the side surface of the container 2B, respectively, thereby further improving waterproofing efficiency.

Example uses of the accessory 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 16. Various kinds of information (e.g., vibration, acceleration, temperature, humidity, and infrared light), which will be sensed in the following description, may be transmitted through the communication module over the network. Necessary information may be automatically determined based on a signal transmitted over the network. A user may be notified of the information or the determination result through the terminal or the hub 1. Alternatively, the information or the determination result may be used to control other apparatuses.

Referring to FIG. 11, an example accessory 2 having an acceleration sensor 257 may be attached to a laundry treatment apparatus 30 to sense vibration generated during the operation of the laundry treatment apparatus 30. The accessory 2 may be attached to a cabinet 31 or a door 33 of the laundry treatment apparatus 30. The accessory 2 may sense a vibration cycle or a vibration period to determine whether or not the laundry treatment apparatus 30 is being operated and the kind of operation performed by the laundry treatment apparatus 30 over the network.

In some implementations, in the case in which the accessory 2 having the acceleration sensor 257 is attached to the door 33 of the laundry treatment apparatus 30, it is possible to sense acceleration based on opening and closing motions of the door 33. As a result, it is possible to determine, over the network, whether the door 33 is opened or closed.

In some examples, the accessory 2 having the acceleration sensor 257 may be placed in a washing hub for receiving laundry in the laundry treatment apparatus 30 in the state in which the waterproof member 2D is attached to the accessory 2 having the acceleration sensor 257. In this case, vibration or acceleration may be sensed by the acceleration sensor 257, whereby it is possible to determine, over the network, whether or not the laundry treatment apparatus 30 is being operated.

In some cases, an accessory 2 having a temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be placed in the washing hub for receiving laundry in the laundry treatment apparatus 30. In this case, the humidity in the laundry treatment apparatus 30 during a drying operation may be sensed, whereby it is possible to determine, over the network, whether or not the drying of the laundry has been completed.

Referring to FIG. 12, in the case in which an example accessory 2 having an acceleration sensor 257 is attached to a door 43 of a refrigerator 40, it is possible to sense acceleration based on opening and closing motions of the door 43. As a result, it is possible to determine, over the network, whether the door 43 is opened or closed.

In the case in which the refrigerator 40 includes a plurality of doors 43, accessories 2-1, 2-2, 203, and 2-4 may be attached respectively to doors 43 a, 43 b, 43 c, and 43 d in order to determine, over the network, whether the doors 43 a, 43 b, 43 c, and 43 d are opened or closed.

In some implementations, an accessory 2 having a remote control module 25 may be attached to a remote-controllable laundry treatment apparatus 30 or refrigerator 40 in order to emit an optical signal to the laundry treatment apparatus 30 or the refrigerator 40 based on a control signal over the network.

Referring to FIG. 13, an accessory 2 having a temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be placed in an indoor space 50 in which an air conditioner 51 is installed to sense the temperature and humidity in the indoor space 50.

In some implementations, a necessary control signal may be transmitted to the accessory 2 based on information about temperature and humidity sensed in the indoor space 50 over the network, and an accessory 2 having a remote control module 25 may emit an optical signal to the air conditioner 51 in order to control whether or not to operate the air conditioner 51 and how to operate the air conditioner 51.

In the indoor space 50, an accessory 2-1 may be attached to the surface of the air conditioner 51. An accessory 2-2 may be attached to a wall 55 or the ceiling.

Referring to FIG. 14, in an example robot cleaner system 60, an example accessory 2 having a proximity sensor 244 may be attached to a robot cleaner 61 (2-1 in FIG. 14) or may be attached to a charging cradle 63 of the robot cleaner (2-2 in FIG. 14). An accessory 2 (2A and 2B) having a proximity sensor 244 may be attached to one selected from between the robot cleaner 61 and the charging cradle 63, and a reflector 2C may be attached to the other selected from between the robot cleaner 61 and the charging cradle 63, in order to sense whether the robot cleaner 61 is separated from the charging cradle 63.

In some implementations, an example accessory 2 having an acceleration sensor 257 may be attached to the robot cleaner 61 in order to sense acceleration based on the movement of the robot cleaner 61 and to determine, over the network, whether the robot cleaner 61 is operating.

In some examples, an accessory 2 having a remote control module 25 may be attached to a remote-controllable robot cleaner 61 in order to emit an optical signal to the robot cleaner 61 based on a control signal over the network.

Referring to FIG. 15, in a door 71 or window system 70 of a building, an example accessory 2 having an acceleration sensor 257 may be attached to the door 71 or the window in order to sense acceleration based on opening and closing motions of the door 71 or the window. As a result, it is possible to determine, over the network, whether the door 71 or the window is opened or closed.

In some implementations, an example accessory 2 (2A and 2B) having a proximity sensor 244 may be attached to one selected from between the door 71 and a wall 75 adjacent to the door 71, and a reflector 2C may be attached to the other selected from between the door 71 and the wall 75 adjacent to the door 71. For example, the accessory 2 (2A, 2B, and 2C) may be disposed such that an optical signal emitted by the proximity sensor 244 is reflected by the reflector 2C in the case in which the door 71 is closed. In this case, when the door 71 is opened, the reflector 2C disposed so as to be adjacent thereto in a specific direction in which the proximity sensor 244 emits the optical signal may disappear or move away to enable sensing of whether or not the door 71 is open. Whether or not the window is open may be sensed in the same manner.

In some implementations, in the case in which the opening and closing motions of a main door 71 of a building or a main door 43 of a refrigerator are not sensed for a long time, a resident may have had a mishap. In this case, this information may be forwarded to the terminal 6.

Referring to FIG. 16, a TV 80 includes a cabinet 81, such as a display panel. The TV 80 includes a control signal light-receiving unit 83 for receiving a remote control signal. An example accessory 2 having a remote control module 25 may be attached to the cabinet 81 of the TV 80 or an object adjacent to the TV 80. The accessory 2 may be disposed such that a specific direction in which an optical signal is emitted is directed to the control signal light-receiving unit 83. An optical signal may be emitted to the TV 80 based on a control signal over the network.

In some implementations, the accessory 2 may be attached to the other apparatuses or may be disposed in other places.

In each of the above implementations, a signal transmitted by the accessory 2 over the network may be received by the terminal 6. An application installed in the terminal 6 may analyze the received signal to acquire information about the operating state of an electric home appliance (e.g., imbalance of a washing machine) or information about opening and closing of a door. The information or the results derived as the result of processing the information (e.g., a warning indicating abnormal operation of a washing machine and a notice requesting that the state of a resident be checked when a door is not opened and closed for a long time) may be displayed through the display or speaker of the terminal 6 or the hub 1.

Referring to FIG. 17, an example plurality of containers 2B may be attached to respective external objects located at different positions. The number of containers 2B may be greater than the number of main bodies 2A. In this case, a user may select some of the containers 2B as needed and may couple the main bodies 2A to the selected containers 2B. In this way, it is possible to easily change the positions of the main bodies 2A. In the case in which the containers 2B are attached to the external objects at optimal positions and in optimal directions, the main bodies 2A may be easily coupled to the containers 2B. Consequently, dual effort to dispose the main bodies 2A at optimal positions and in optimal directions is not necessary.

For example, in the state in which a container 2B-1 is attached to a position 30 and another container 2B-2 is attached to another position 40, a main body 2A-1 may be coupled to the container 2B-1 and afterward may be coupled to the container 2B-2 as needed.

A plurality of containers 2B-1, 2B-2, 2B-3, 2B-4, 2B-5, and 2B-6 are attached respectively at a plurality of positions 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80, and a smaller number of main bodies 2A than the number of containers may be coupled to one or more containers 2B as needed. In some implementations, the main bodies 2A may be disposed at all the positions. Alternatively or additionally, a smaller number of main bodies 2A may be used, and the positions of the main bodies 2A may be easily changed.

The controller 23 may perform control such that the kind of a target transmitted over the network can be changed based on the change in position of the main body 2A. The kind of a target transmitted over the network may be changed by user input through the terminal 6 or the input unit 27. Alternatively or additionally, the kind of a target transmitted over the network may be changed in response to automatically changing position information.

The controller 23 may perform control so as to change whether or not to transmit the information about the surrounding circumstances over the network and whether or not to operate the remote control module 25. Whether or not to transmit the information about the surrounding circumstances and whether or not to operate the remote control module 25 may be changed by user input through the terminal 6 or the input unit 27. Alternatively, whether or not to transmit the information about the surrounding circumstances and whether or not to operate the remote control module 25 may be changed in response to automatically changed position information.

The Internet of Things environment may be changed depending on the change in position of the main body 2A. As a result, information about a target to be transmitted over the network may be changed, or whether or not to transmit the information about the surrounding circumstances and whether or not to operate the remote control module 25 may be changed.

Referring to FIG. 17, an example plurality of accessories 2 may be used to constitute a network system. For example, a main body 2A-1 and another main body 2A-2 may be disposed at two positions selected from among various positions 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 within the network environment N.

The network system includes a server 8 for receiving information about the surrounding circumstances of one of the two main bodies 2A-1 and 2A-2. For example, the server 8 may receive information about the surrounding circumstances of the main body 2A-1 from the main body 2A-1. The server 8 transmits a signal for controlling an apparatus placed around the other main body 2A-2 to the main body 2A-2 based on the sensed information. The transmission and reception of information between the server 8 and the main body 2A means that information is transmitted and received via the gateway 4, the access point 7, and/or the hub 1.

For example, when a main body 2A-1 disposed at the door system 70 senses that the door 71 has been opened through the network system, a main body 2A-2 disposed at the robot cleaner system 60 may emit a remote control optical signal to the robot cleaner 61 such that the robot cleaner 61 cleans two opposite spaces partitioned by the door 71.

In another example, a main body 2A-1 disposed at a certain point in the indoor space 50 senses temperature and humidity at the point through the network system, and a main body 2A-2 disposed at the air conditioner 51 may emit a remote control optical signal for controlling whether or not to operate the air conditioner 51 and the operation level of the air conditioner 51 to the air conditioner 51.

In another example, a main body 2A-1 disposed at a certain point senses information about completion of operation of the washing machine, opening of the door of the refrigerator, opening of the outdoor entrance, or opening of the window at the point through the network system, and a main body 2A-2 disposed at the TV 80 may emit a remote control optical signal for controlling the operation of the TV 80 to the control signal light-receiving unit 83. As a result, a user may be informed of a specific notice or warning through the TV 80.

In a further example, a main body 2A-1 introduced into the laundry treatment apparatus 30 together with laundry senses temperature and humidity in the laundry treatment apparatus 30 through the network system, and a main body 2A-2 disposed outside the laundry treatment apparatus 30 may emit a remote control optical signal for controlling the operation of the laundry treatment apparatus 30 to the laundry treatment apparatus 30.

The network system may further include a third main body 2A. In this case, the server 8 may receive information about the surrounding circumstances of the third main body 2A and the main body 2A-1. The server 8 may emit a signal for controlling an apparatus place around the main body 2A-2 to the main body 2A-2 based on the sensed information.

In the case in which three main bodies 2A are used, for example, the third main body disposed at the door system 70 may sense the opening of the door 71, the main body 2A-1, which is disposed in one, in which the air conditioner 51 is not installed, of two opposite spaces connected to each other as the result of opening of the door 71 may sense the temperature or humidity in the space, and the main body 2A-2 disposed at the air conditioner 51 may emit a remote control optical signal for controlling whether or not to operate the air conditioner 51 and the operation level of the air conditioner 51 to the air conditioner 51, through the network system. In the case in which the third main body senses that the door 71 is closed, setting may be performed such that the air conditioner 51, at which the main body 2A-2 is disposed, is not controlled based on the temperature or humidity sensed by the main body 2A-1.

The respective components of the main body 2A will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 18 to 39.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the main body 2A includes a switch panel 210, which is elastically deformed when pushed downward by a user to push the main switch 242, a switch operation unit 220, which is elastically deformed to generate restoring force when the switch panel 210 is elastically deformed while supporting the switch panel 210, cases 230 and 270 for supporting the switch operation unit 220 and defining the external appearance of the main body 2A, printed circuit boards (PCBs) 240 and 250 received in the cases 230 and 270, and a transmission member 260 disposed in the cases 230 and 270 for transmitting an optical signal.

In this implementation, the switch panel 210 defines at least a portion of the upper surface of the main body 2A. The cases 230 and 270 include a side case 230 defining at least a portion of the external shape of the main body 2A in the direction XO outward from the axis. The side case 230 is disposed at the lower side of the switch panel 210. The cases 230 and 270 include a bottom case 270 defining the bottom surface of the external shape of the main body 2A. The bottom case 270 is connected to the lower end of the side case 230. The switch operation unit 220 is located on the upper side of the side case 2320. The switch operation unit 220 is disposed at the lower side of the switch panel 210. The switch operation unit 220 contacts the switch panel 210. When the switch panel 210 is elastically deformed, the switch operation unit 220 is also elastically deformed. The PCBs 240 and 250 include an upper PCB 240 and a lower PCB 250. The lower PCB 250 is disposed under the upper PCB 240. The lower PCB 250 is connected to the upper PCB 240. The upper PCB 240 is located in the side case 230. The lower PCB is located in the side case 230 and the bottom case 270.

Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, the switch panel 210 is dome-shaped. The switch panel 210 is formed of a dome-shaped plate that is convex upward. The switch panel 210 is formed in a convex shape such that the center of the switch panel 210 is the highest. The switch panel 210 is formed such that the edge of the switch panel 210 is the lowest. When pushed downward, the dome-shaped switch panel 210 is deformed while generating upward restoring force.

The switch panel 210 defines the upper surface of the main body 2A. The switch panel 210 may be made of synthetic resin. The switch panel 210 is attached to the switch operation unit 220. The switch panel 210 may be attached to the switch operation unit 220 using a double-sided adhesive. When the switch panel 210 is pushed downward and deformed downward, an elastic operation portion 225, a description of which will follow, is pushed downward.

The switch panel 210 may include a plate having a predetermined thickness. The switch panel 210 includes an upper surface 211, defining the external appearance of the main body 2A, and a lower surface 213 for defining the interior of the main body 2A.

The outer circumference of the switch panel 210 contacts the inner surface of the side case 230. For example, the outer circumference of the switch panel 210 contacts the inner surface of a side member 231, a description of which will follow (the side surface of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis). In this case, the upper surface of the outer circumference of the switch panel 210 substantially coincides with the upper end surface of the side member 231. When the dome-shaped switch panel 210 is pushed downward, the inner surface of the side member 231 prevents the switch panel 210 from extending in the direction XO outward from the axis. As a result, on the assumption that the other conditions of the dome-shaped switch panel 210 are not changed, greater restoring force is generated when the switch panel 210 is elastically deformed downward.

When viewed from above, the switch panel 210 is generally dome-shaped. The switch panel 210 may be provided in the edge thereof with a switch panel recess 210 a. When the switch panel 210 is located on the side case 230, a positioning protrusion 232 of the side case 230, a description of which will follow, is engaged into the switch panel recess 210 a. As a result, the switch panel 210 may be located on the side case 230 and the switch operation unit 220 in the designed direction.

The switch panel 210 includes a light transmission unit 215 made of a material that transmits light. The light transmission unit 215 is made of a transparent or semitransparent material that transmits light in the upward and downward direction of the switch panel 210. The light transmission unit 215 is formed at a portion of the switch panel 210 that is spaced apart from the central axis X in the direction XO outward from the axis. In the state in which the main body 2A is assembled, a display LED 249 is disposed at the lower side of the light transmission unit 215. Light emitted by the display LED 249 may pass upward through the light transmission unit 215. The positioning protrusion 232 and the switch panel recess 210 a are disposed such that the display LED 249 is disposed at the lower side of the light transmission unit 215 in the case in which the positioning protrusion 232 is engaged into the switch panel recess 210 a.

Referring to FIGS. 22 to 24, the switch operation unit 220 includes a support frame 221 located in the case (the side case) 230 and an elastic operation portion 225 connected to the support frame 221 such that the elastic operation portion 225 can contact the switch panel 210.

The support frame 221 is fixed to the case (the side case) 230. The support frame 221 is located on the upper side of the side case 230. The support frame 221 is disposed in the side case 230. The support frame 221 supports the elastic operation portion 225.

The support frame 221 may be provided in the edge thereof with a support frame recess 221 a. When the support frame 221 is disposed in the side case 230, a positioning protrusion 232 of the side case 230, a description of which will follow, is engaged into the support frame recess 221 a. As a result, the switch operation unit 220 is located I the side case 230 in the designed direction.

In some implementations, when the positioning protrusion 232 is engaged into the support frame recess 221 a, the temperature and humidity sensor 245 and the transmission member 260 may be disposed in a gap between a plurality of separate insertion ribs 223 a and 223 b, a description of which will follow. In some examples, in the case in which the positioning protrusion 232 is engaged into the support frame recess 221 a, interference is prevented when other parts are disposed between the light transmission unit 215 and the display LED 249.

The support frame 221 includes an edge member 222 extending along the circumference thereof about the central axis X. The edge member 222 may be generally formed in a ring shape. The edge member 222 may be made of a plate having a predetermined vertical thickness. The edge member 222 extends along the inner circumference of the side case 230. The side of the edge member 222 in the direction XO outward from the axis contacts the inner surface of the side case 230. The upper surface of the edge member 222 contacts the lower surface of the switch panel 210. The switch panel 210 may be attached to the edge member 222. The lower surface of the edge part of the switch panel 210 is disposed on the upper surface of the edge member 222.

The edge member 222 may be provided with an opening (a recess or a hole) for avoiding interference with other parts when PCBs 240 and 250 are coupled to the side case 230. For example, an opening 222 b for securing a space occupied by the temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be formed in the edge member 222. An opening 222 c for securing a space occupied by the proximity sensor 244 may be formed in the edge member 222. An opening 222 d for securing a space occupied by the remote control module 25 may be formed in the edge member 222. The recesses 222 b, 222 c, and 222 d for securing spaces occupied by the other parts may be formed in the edge member 222 in the direction XI inward toward the axis.

The elastic operation portion 225 is connected to the edge member 222. The elastic operation portion 225 crosses the center of the edge member 222. The edge member 222 has elastic operation portion fixing ends 222 a, to which the elastic operation portion 225 is connected. The vertical thickness of each of the elastic operation portion fixing ends 222 a is greater than the vertical thickness of the elastic operation portion 225.

The support frame 221 includes an insertion rib 223 protruding downward from the edge member 222 and extending along the edge member 222. The insertion rib 223 may extend in the circumferential direction. A single long insertion rib 223 may be provided. In this case, a plurality of separate insertion ribs 223 is provided.

The insertion ribs 223 are inserted into the case. The insertion ribs 223 are inserted into the side case 230. The insertion ribs 223 are inserted into holding recesses 236 c formed in holding ribs 236 of the side case 230. The support frame 221 is more stably located in the side case 230 by the insertion ribs 223.

The insertion ribs 223 are separated from each other about a portion at which the temperature and humidity sensor 245 is disposed. The insertion ribs 223 are also separated from each other about another portion at which the humidity sensor 244 or the remote control module 25 is disposed. The insertion ribs 223 may include a first insertion rib 223 a and a second insertion rib 223 b, which are separated from each other. The first insertion rib 223 a and the second insertion rib 223 b extend from the portion at which the temperature and humidity sensor 245 is disposed to the portion at which the humidity sensor 244 or the remote control module 25 is disposed.

The support frame 221 includes a case-coupling portion 224 coupled to the side case 230. The case-coupling portion 224 may be formed in the shape of a hook or a recess. A plurality of case-coupling portions 224 may be arranged along the circumference of the support frame 221 at intervals. The case-coupling portions 224 are formed at the lower surface of the edge member 222. The case-coupling portions 224 are formed at the sides of the insertion ribs 223 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The upper surfaces of the case-coupling portions 224 are connected to the lower surface of the edge member 222, and the ends of the case-coupling portions 224 in the direction XI inward toward the axis are connected to the insertion ribs 223. The case-coupling portions 224 may be coupled to the inner wall of the side case 230 in the direction XO outward from the axis.

In this case, a coupling recess 224 a is formed in each of the case-coupling portions 224. The coupling recess 224 a may be formed so as to be depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The circumferential length of the coupling recess 224 a may be greater than the vertical length of the coupling recess 224 a. The coupling recesses 224 a may be arranged along the circumference of the support frame 221 at intervals.

The circumferentially opposed sides and the lower side of each of the coupling recesses 224 a are defined by a corresponding one of the case-coupling portions 224. The upper side of each of the coupling recesses 224 a may be defined by the lower surface of the edge member 222.

The case-coupling portions 224 are coupled to support frame-coupling portions 2331 of the side case 230. Coupling recesses are formed in one selected from the case-coupling portions 224 and the support frame-coupling portions 2331, and protrusions, which are engaged into the coupling recesses, are formed in the other selected from the case-coupling portions 224 and the support frame-coupling portions 2331. In this case, the coupling recesses 224 a are formed in the case-coupling portions 224, and protrusions, which are engaged into the coupling recesses, are formed in the support frame-coupling portions 2331.

The elastic operation portion 225 is disposed at the lower side of the switch panel 210. When the switch panel 210 is elastically deformed downward, the elastic operation portion 225 is also elastically deformed downward to generate restoring force. When the switch operation portion 220 is elastically deformed downward, the main switch 242 is pushed. When the main switch 242 is pushed, control information is input to the controller 23.

The elastic operation portion 225 is disposed at the upper side of the main switch 242. The main switch 242 is disposed in the cases 230 and 270. The main switch 242 is pushed downward such that a command is input to the controller 23. When the elastic operation portion 225 is elastically deformed downward, the main switch 242 is pushed. The elastic operation portion 225 is spaced apart from the upper end of the main switch 242 by a predetermined distance in the state of not being elastically deformed.

The elastic operation portion 225 is disposed between the switch panel 210 and the main switch 242.

The elastic operation portion 225 is formed at the support frame 221 in a bridge shape. The elastic operation portion 225 may be generally formed of a bar type plate. The elastic operation portion 225 may cross the central axis X. The elastic operation portion 225 horizontally traverses the upper side of the main switch 242. When the elastic operation portion 225 is viewed from above, a first connection part 226 a, a first bent part 227 a, a middle part 228, a second bent part 227 b, and a second connection part 226 b, a description of which will follow, are sequentially arranged.

The elastic operation portion 225 is generally convex upward. The middle part of the elastic operation portion 225 is the highest. Referring to FIG. 24, the middle part 228 of the elastic operation portion 225 is higher by a predetermined length hs than the end of the edge member 222 in the direction XO outward from the axis.

The elastic operation portion 225 may be connected to opposite sides of the edge member 222. The elastic operation portion 225 may cross the center of the edge member 222. When the elastic operation portion 225 is pushed downward, therefore, the edge member 222 restricts the opposite ends of the elastic operation portion 225 to prevent the elastic operation portion 225 from extending in the opposite directions such that the elastic deformation is concentrated on the bent parts 227, a description of which will follow.

The elastic operation portion 225 includes connection parts 226 connected to the support frame 221, bent parts 227 formed so as to be convex downward, and a middle part 228 connected to the bent parts 227 a and 227 b. The middle part 228 includes a horizontal plate 228 a having opposite ends connected to the bent parts 227 a and 227 b and a push protrusion 228 b for pushing the main switch 242 downward.

The bent parts 227 are convex downward. When the elastic operation portion 225 is pushed, the bent parts 227 are much more elastically deformed than the other parts.

The bent parts 227 connect the connection parts 226 to the middle part 228. One end a1 of each of the bent parts 227 is connected to a corresponding one of the connection parts 226, and the other end a2 of each of the bent parts 227 is connected to the middle part 228. The bent parts 227 include a first bent part 227 a for connecting the first connection part 226 a to the middle part 228 and a second bent part 227 b for connecting the second connection part 226 b to the middle part 228.

The bent parts 227 are connected to the opposite ends of the middle part 228. The bent parts 227 include a first bent part 227 a connected to one end of the middle part 228 and a second bent part 227 b connected to the other end of the middle part 228.

The first bent part 227 a is configured such that the end a2 of the first bent part 227 a adjacent to the middle part 228 is higher than the end a1 of the first bent part 227 a distant from the middle part 228. The second bent part 227 b is configured such that the end a2 of the second bent part 227 b adjacent to the middle part 228 is higher than the end a1 of the second bent part 227 b distant from the middle part 228.

When the elastic operation portion 225 is pushed downward in the state in which the elastic operation portion 225 is convex upward without the bent parts 227, buckling may occur in an undesired portion of the elastic operation portion 225, and excessive force may be required in order to push the elastic operation portion 225.

In the present disclosure, the bent parts 227 are provided. When the elastic operation portion 225 is pushed downward, the bent parts 227 are further bent, with the result that the curvature of the bent parts 227 is increased and the distance between the opposite ends a1 and a2 of each of the bent parts 227 is decreased. As the bent parts 227 are elastically deformed when bent, restoring force is generated.

For example, the first bent part 227 a has a curvature that is convex downward. When the middle part 228 is pushed downward, the first bent part 227 a is further bent, with the result that the curvature of the first bent part 227 a is increased and the distance between the opposite ends a1 and a2 of the first bent part 227 a is decreased. In addition, the second bent part 227 b has a curvature that is convex downward. When the middle part 228 is pushed downward, the second bent part 227 b is further bent, with the result that the curvature of the second bent part 227 b is increased and the distance between the opposite ends a1 and a2 of the second bent part 227 b is decreased.

In some implementations, deformation of the elastic operation portion 225 is concentrated on the bent parts 227 without buckling, which is advantageous in inducing deformation desired by a designer and in predetermining the magnitude of the restoring force.

The connection parts 226 include a first connection part 226 a defining one end of the elastic operation portion 225 and connected to one side of the support frame 221 and a second connection part 226 b defining the other end of the elastic operation portion 225 and connected to the other side of the support frame 221. The first connection part 226 a and the second connection part 226 b may be disposed about the central axis X in opposite directions. The first connection part 226 a and the second connection part 226 b are connected to the elastic operation portion fixing ends 222 a.

One end of each of the connection parts 226 is connected to the support frame 221, and the other end of each of the connection parts 226 is connected to a corresponding one of the bent parts 227. The first connection part 226 a connects the first bent part 227 a to the support frame 221. The second connection part 226 b connects the second bent part 227 b to the support frame 221.

Each of the connection parts 226 may be formed of a bar type plate. Each of the connection parts 226 may be a member having a predetermined vertical thickness. Each of the connection parts 226 is disposed to have the inclination in which the height is gradually increased from the end a0 of the support frame 221 to the end a1 of each of the bent parts 227. The first connection part 226 a is disposed to have the inclination in which the height is gradually increased from the end a0 of the support frame 221 to the end a1 of the first bent part 227 a. The second connection part 226 b is disposed to have the inclination in which the height is gradually increased from the end a0 of the support frame 221 to the end a1 of the second bent part 227 b. As a result, the elastic operation portion 225 may be generally formed so as to be convex upward.

The middle part 228 is disposed between the middle part of the switch panel 210 and the main switch 242. The middle part 228 is disposed at the lower side of the middle part of the switch panel 210. The upper surface of the middle part 228 may contact the lower surface of the switch panel 210 or may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the switch panel 210. In the state in which the middle part 228 and the switch panel 210 are not elastically deformed, the upper surface of the middle part 228 may be spaced apart from the lower surface of the switch panel 210. When the switch panel 210 is elastically deformed downward, the lower surface of the switch panel 210 contacts the upper surface of the middle part 228, with the result that the middle part 228 is pushed downward.

The middle part 228 is disposed at the upper side of the main switch 242. When moved downward, the middle part 228 pushes the main switch 242. In the state in which the middle part 228 is not elastically deformed, the middle part 228 is spaced apart from the upper end of the main switch 242 by a predetermined distance.

The middle part 228 interconnects the bent parts 227. One end of the middle part 228 is connected to the first bent part 227 a, and the other end of the middle part 228 is connected to the second bent part 227 b. The upper surface of the middle part 228 is disposed higher than the other parts of the elastic operation portion 225. As a result, the elastic operation portion 225 may be generally formed so as to be convex upward.

The middle part 228 includes a horizontal plate 228 a defining the upper surface of the middle part 228.

The connection parts 226 a and 226 b and the bent parts 227 a and 227 b are each formed of a plate. The first connection part 226 a, the second connection part 226 b, the first bent part 227 a, and the second bent part 227 b are each formed of a plate.

The horizontal plate 228 a is thicker than the first bent part 227 a and the second bent part 227 b. The horizontal plate 228 a may be thicker than the first connection part 226 a and the second connection part 226 b. As a result, the rigidity of the horizontal plate 228 a is increased. When the elastic operation portion 225 is pushed downward, therefore, the elastic deformation may be easily concentrated on the bent parts 227. Consequently, it is possible for a designer to more easily set the elastic force of the elastic operation portion 225. In addition, the rigidity of the horizontal plate 228 a is sufficiently secured even if the largest bending moment is applied to the horizontal plate 228 a, thereby improving the durability of the elastic operation portion 225.

The horizontal plate 228 a interconnects the bent parts 227. One end of the horizontal plate 228 a is connected to the first bent part 227 a, and the other end of the horizontal plate 228 a is connected to the second bent part 227 b.

The middle part 228 includes a push protrusion 228 b protruding downward from the lower surface of the horizontal plate 228 a. The push protrusion 228 b may be disposed at the middle of the horizontal plate 228 a. The push protrusion 228 b may have various shapes. In this case, the push protrusion 228 b is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape.

In the state in which the upper end b2 of the middle part 228 is not pushed, the lower end b1 of the push protrusion 228 b is spaced apart from the upper end of the main switch 242 by a first predetermined length. When the middle part 228 is pushed downward, the lower end b1 of the push protrusion 228 b contacts the upper end of the main switch 242, with the result that the main switch 242 is pushed downward. The main switch 242 is set to be pushed by a second predetermined length. The sum of the first predetermined length and the second predetermined length is defined as a stroke length d1.

The depth of the downwardly concave surface of each of the bent parts 227 is defined as a bending depth d2. For example, the bending depth d2 may be defined as the distance from a plane interconnecting the opposite ends a1 and a2 of each of the bent parts 227 to the upper surface of each of the bent parts 227.

The elastic operation portion 225 may be configured such that the bending depth d2 is greater than the stroke length d1. As a result, the elastic deformation of the elastic operation portion 225 may be concentrated on the bent parts 227 under the condition that the stroke length d1 is uniform. The bending depth d2 may be about 1.5 times the stroke length d1. For example, the stroke length d1 may be preset to about 0.5 mm, and the bending depth d2 may be preset to about 0.75 mm.

The structure of the side case 230 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 25 to 27.

The side case 230 includes a side member 231 defining the external appearance of the circumference thereof about the central axis X. The side member 231 may extend in the circumferential direction. The side member 231 may be constituted by a wall having a predetermined vertical height.

Referring to FIG. 36, an inclined surface S of the side member 231 is formed so as to become increasingly distant from the central axis X in the upward direction. The upper end of the side member 231 defines the thickness of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis and in the direction XO outward from the axis. The corner of the upper end of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis defines the inner edge of the side member 231. The corner of the upper end of the side member 231 in the direction XO outward from the axis defines the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A.

The side member 231 is provided with a transmission member location hole 231 a, in which the transmission member 260 is located. The circumferential length of the transmission member location hole 231 a is greater than the vertical length of the transmission member location hole 231 a. The transmission member location hole 231 a is formed in the inclined surface S of the side member 231. Circumferentially opposed ends of the transmission member location hole 231 a are rounded.

The side member 231 is provided with a sensor hole 231 b, through which air, which is sensed by the temperature and humidity sensor 245, passes. The sensor hole 231 b may be circular. The sensor hole 231 b is formed opposite the transmission member location hole 231 a about the central axis X. A space in which the temperature and humidity sensor 245 is disposed is defined in the sensor hole 231 b in the direction XI inward toward the axis.

The side member 231 is provided with a charging terminal recess 231 c, through which a plug is inserted into the charging terminal 255. The end of the charging terminal 255 is held in the charging terminal recess 231 c. The charging terminal recess 231 c is formed in the lower part of the side member 231. The end of the charging terminal 255 is located in the charging terminal recess 231 c such that the circumferentially opposed side surfaces and the upper surface of the end of the charging terminal 255 contact the side member 231 and the lower surface of the end of the charging terminal 255 contacts the bottom case 270. The charging terminal recess 231 c may be formed in the insertion portion 202 of the main body 2A, which is not exposed when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B.

In some implementations, the attachment-detachment groove 231 d is formed in the outer circumference of the side member 231. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d may extend in the circumferential direction. The attachment-detachment groove 231 d may be interrupted by the charging terminal recess 231 c.

In some examples, the side member 231 is provided with a button hole 231 d, through which an inner button may be pushed. An external object may be inserted through the button hole 231 d to push an inner button, such as a reset button 252. The button hole 231 d may be formed in the surface that defines the attachment-detachment groove 231 d such that the button hole 231 d is not easily visible. The button hole 231 d may be formed in the insertion portion 202 of the main body 2A, which is not exposed when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. A space in which the reset button 252 is disposed is defined in the button hole 231 d in the direction XI inward toward the axis.

The side member 231 is provided with a positioning protrusion 232. The positioning protrusion 232 may be engaged into the switch panel recess 210 a. The positioning protrusion 232 may be engaged into the support frame recess 221 a. The positioning protrusion 232 protrudes from the inner surface of the side member 231.

The positioning protrusion 232 extends vertically along the inner surface of the side member 231. In this case, the upper part of the positioning protrusion 232 is located in the switch panel recess 210 a, and the lower part of the positioning protrusion 232 is located in the support frame recess 221 a.

The side member 231 is provided with support frame-coupling portions 2331, which are coupled to the support frame 221. The support frame-coupling portions 2331 may be hook-shaped or dome-shaped. The support frame-coupling portions 2331 may be arranged along the circumference of the side member 231 at intervals. The support frame-coupling portions 2331 are formed on the inner surface of the side member 231. The support frame-coupling portions 2331 are formed on the upper part of the side member 231. The support frame-coupling portions 2331 may be hooks protruding from the inner surface of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis. Each of the hooks 2331 may be formed in a shape having a circumferential length greater than a vertical length. The hooks 2331 are inserted into the coupling recesses 224 a of the support frame 221.

The side case 230 may include holding ribs 236 for guiding the support frame 221 such that the support frame 221 is located in the side case 230. Holding recesses 236 c are formed in the holding ribs 236. The insertion ribs 223 of the support frame 221 are inserted into the holding recesses 236 c. The holding ribs 236 are arranged along the circumference of the side case 230 at intervals. The holding ribs 236 are disposed inside the side case 230. The holding ribs 236 protrude upward from the upper surface of a main rib 235, a description of which will follow, and extend in the direction XI inward toward the axis and the direction XO outward from the axis.

Each of the holding ribs 236 may include a first holding rib 236 a and a second holding rib 236 b, which are separated from each other. A gap between the first holding rib 236 a and the second holding rib 236 b defines a holding recess 236 c. One end of the first holding rib 236 a may be connected to the inner surface of the side member 231. One end of the second holding rib 236 b may be connected to a connection rib 239, a description of which will follow.

In some implementations, the side member 231 is provided with a bottom case-coupling portion 2332, which is coupled to the bottom case 270. The bottom case-coupling portion 2332 may be hook-shaped or dome-shaped. A plurality of bottom case-coupling portions 2332 may be arranged along the circumference of the side member 231 at intervals. The bottom case-coupling portions 2332 are formed on the inner surface of the side member 231. The bottom case-coupling portions 2332 are formed on the lower part of the side member 231. The bottom case-coupling portions 2332 may be hooks protruding from the inner surface of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis. Each of the hooks 2332 may be formed in a shape having a circumferential length greater than a vertical length. The hooks 2332 are inserted into coupling recesses 273 a formed in the bottom case 270.

The side case 230 includes a lower guide 237 for guiding the disposition of the lower PCB 250. The lower guide 237 may be a bar type member protruding downward. Alternatively, the lower guide 237 may be a rib type member protruding downward. The lower guide 237 extends upward and downward. The lower end of the lower guide 237 is a free end. The upper end of the lower guide 237 may be connected to the lower surface of the main rib 235. The lower guide 237 is disposed at the inner edge of the side case 230. A plurality of lower guides 237 may be arranged along the circumference of the main rib 235 at intervals.

Referring to FIG. 35, the lower PCB 250 is provided with guide recesses 250 a, into which the lower guides 237 are engaged. When the lower PCB 250 is placed such that the lower guides 237 are inserted into the guide recesses 250 a, the lower PCB 250 may be placed at a predetermined position.

The side case 230 includes a PCB disposition member 238, which is horizontally formed in the side member 231. When viewed from above, the PCB disposition member 238 is disposed at the central part of the side case 230.

In some implementations, the side case 230 may include a PCB disposition member connection portion 234 for connecting the PCB disposition member 238 to the side member 231. The PCB disposition member connection portion 234 is supported by the side member 231, and the PCB disposition member 238 is supported by the PCB disposition member connection portion 234. The PCB disposition member connection portion 234 is disposed at the edge of the PCB disposition member 238. In addition, the PCB disposition member connection portion 234 is disposed between the PCB disposition member 238 and the side member 231.

The PCB disposition member connection portion 234 may include a main rib 235 protruding from the inner surface of the side member 231 in the direction XI inward toward the axis and extending along the circumference of the side member 231. The main rib 235 has a predetermined vertical thickness. The main rib 235 may be ring-shaped. The main rib 235 provides a support point for supporting the PCB disposition member 238.

The PCB disposition member connection portion 234 includes a connection rib 239 protruding from the main rib 235 so as to be connected to the PCB disposition member 238. The connection rib 239 may protrude downward from the lower surface of the main rib 235. In this example, the connection rib 239 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the main rib 235. The lower end of the connection rib 239 may be connected to the end of the main rib 235 in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The upper end of the connection rib 239 may be connected to the end of the PCB disposition member 238 in the direction XO outward from the axis.

The connection rib 239 may extend in the circumferential direction. A plurality of connection ribs 239 may be arranged in the circumferential direction at intervals. Holes 239 a may be defined between the respective connection ribs 239. The holes 239 a are defined by the connection ribs 239 at opposite sides of the respective holes 239 a in the circumferential direction and are defined by the PCB disposition member 238 and the main rib 235 in the vertical direction.

The PCB disposition member 238 is a plate member that is disposed horizontally. When viewed from above, the PCB disposition member 238 may be generally circular. The PCB disposition member 238 may be disposed horizontally.

The PCB disposition member 238 is provided with a vertical through hole 238 a. Referring to FIGS. 29 to 31, the PCB disposition member 238 is provided with a PCB through hole 238 a 1.

The PCB may be disposed so as to extend through the PCB through hole 238 a 1. Referring to FIGS. 32 and 34, the PCB disposition member 238 is provided with an element through hole 238 a 2. A predetermined element or part may be disposed so as to extend through the element through hole 238 a 2. In this case, the upper PCB 240 extends through the PCB through hole 238 a 1, and a connector 2547 of the power supply device 254 extends through the element through hole 238 a 2. The PCB through hole 238 a 1 and the element through hole 238 a 2 may be formed separately. In this case, the PCB through hole 238 a 1 and the element through hole 238 a 2 are integrally formed into a single through hole 238 a.

Referring to FIGS. 25 to 31, the PCB disposition member 238 includes PCB contact portions 2381 and 2385, which define a PCB location surface. For instance, the upper surface of the PCB disposition member 238 includes an upper contact portion 2381, which contacts the lower surface of the upper PCB 240. The lower surface of the PCB disposition member 238 includes a lower contact portion 2385, which contacts the upper surface of the upper PCB 240. The upper PCB 240 may extend through the through hole 238 a so as to be disposed at both the upper side and the lower side of the PCB disposition member 238. In this case, the upper PCB 240 may contact both the upper contact portion 2381 and the lower contact portion 2385.

The upper contact portion 2381 of the PCB disposition member 238 is disposed higher than the other portions. The upper contact portion 2381 may extend in the forward and rearward direction. The front end of the upper contact portion 2381 may extend to the front end of the PCB disposition member 238, and the rear end of the upper contact portion 2381 may extend to the rear end of the PCB disposition member 238.

The PCB disposition member 238 includes fixing portions 2382 and 2383 for fixing the PCB to the PCB disposition member 238. For instance, the PCB disposition member 238 may include an upper fixing protrusion 2382 protruding upward and a lower fixing protrusion 2386 protruding downward. The upper fixing protrusion 2382 may be disposed at the upper contact portion 2381, and the lower fixing protrusion 2386 may be disposed at the lower contact portion 2385. The upper fixing protrusion 2382 may be inserted into a fixing hole 240 a formed in the upper PCB 240, and the lower fixing protrusion 2386 may be inserted into a fixing hole 240 b formed in the upper PCB 240.

The inner space of the side case 230 may be defined by the PCB disposition member 238. The inner space of the side case 230 may be partitioned into an upper inner space defined at the upper side of the PCB disposition member 238 and a lower inner space defined at the lower side of the PCB disposition member 238. The upper inner space of the side case 230 extends along the inner circumference of the side member 231 so as to have a larger vertical depth. The sensor module, including the temperature and humidity sensor 245 and the proximity sensor 244, may be disposed in the upper inner space of the side case 230. The remote control module 25 may be disposed in the upper inner space of the side case 230.

The main body 2A includes PCBs 240 and 250. The PCBs 240 and 250 are disposed in the main body 2A. Two or more PCBs 240 and 250 may be disposed so as to realize a layered structure. In this example, the upper PCB 240 is disposed above the lower PCB 250.

Referring to FIGS. 29 to 31, the upper PCB 240 includes an upper plate portion 2401 contacting the upper contact portion 2381, a lower plate portion 2405 contacting the lower contact portion 2385, and a connection plate portion 2403 for connecting the upper plate portion 2401 and the lower plate portion 2405 to each other. The upper plate portion 2401 is disposed in the upper inner space of the side case 230, and the lower plate portion 2405 is disposed in the lower inner space of the side case 230. The connection plate portion 2403 vertically extends through the through hole 238 a.

When viewed from above, the upper plate portion 2401 extends to the main rib 235 in the forward and rearward direction. The upper plate portion 2401 is provided with a fixing hole 240 a. The upper fixing protrusion 2382 is inserted into the fixing hole 240 a such that the upper plate portion 2401 is fixed.

The front part of the upper plate portion 2401 may be bent downward along the front corner of the PCB disposition member 238. The rear part of the upper plate portion 2401 may be bent downward along the rear corner of the PCB disposition member 238. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 or the proximity sensor 244 may be disposed at the forward-facing surface of the bent front part of the upper plate portion 2401. The temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be disposed at the rearward-facing surface of the bent rear part of the upper plate portion 2401.

The control signal light-emitting unit 243 is disposed at the front part of the upper plate portion 2401. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 may include an LED for emitting infrared light to the front. The transmission member 260 is disposed in front of the control signal light-emitting unit 243. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 is located at the upper side of the main rib 235 on the front side of the side case. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 is electrically connected to the upper PCB 240.

In some implementations, the proximity sensor 244 is disposed at the front part of the upper plate portion 2401. The proximity sensor 244 includes a proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 for emitting infrared light to the front and a proximity signal light-receiving unit 2442 for receiving a reflected component of the emitted infrared light. The transmission member 260 is disposed in front of the proximity sensor 244. The proximity sensor 244 is located at the upper side of the main rib 235 on the front side of the side case 230. The proximity sensor 244 is electrically connected to the upper PCB 240.

The control signal light-emitting unit 243 and the proximity sensor 244 are disposed at the left and right sides of the front part of the side case 230. Infrared light emitted by the control signal light-emitting unit 243 and infrared light emitted by the proximity sensor 244 may pass through the transmission member 260. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 and the proximity sensor 244 are disposed at the rear of the transmission member 260.

The temperature and humidity sensor 245 may be disposed at the rear part of the upper plate portion 2401. The temperature and humidity sensor 245 senses the temperature and/or humidity of air passing through the sensor hole 231 b. The sensor hole 231 b is disposed at the rear of the temperature and humidity sensor 245. The proximity sensor 244 is located at the upper side of the main rib 235 on the rear side of the side case 230. The proximity sensor 244 is electrically connected to the upper PCB 240.

The main switch 242 may be disposed at the central part of the upper plate portion 2401. The main switch 242 may be pushed downward. The push protrusion 228 b is disposed at the upper side of the main switch 242 so as to be space apart from the main switch 242 by a predetermined distance.

The upper plate portion 2401 is formed in a shape that can be connected to all of the control signal light-emitting unit 243, the proximity sensor 244, the temperature and humidity sensor 245, and the main switch 242.

The display LED 249 may be disposed at the upper plate portion 2401. The display LED 249 may include a plurality of LEDs having different colors. The display LED 249 may inform a user of charging/discharging of the battery 2541 or whether the accessory has been paired with the network. The region in which the display LED 249 is disposed is shown in FIG. 29. The display LED 249 is disposed at the lower side of the light transmission unit 215 of the switch panel 210. Light emitted by the display LED 249 may pass through the light transmission unit 215. In this example, the display LED 249 is disposed between the main switch 242 and the temperature and humidity sensor 245.

The upper plate portion 2401 of the PCB is bent downward and extends to define the upper end of the connection plate portion 2403. The lower plate portion 2405 of the PCB is bent upward and extends to define the lower end of the connection plate portion 2403. The connection plate portion 2403 is disposed at the right side of the main switch 242. The connection plate portion 2403 electrically connects the upper plate portion 2401 and the lower plate portion 2405 to each other.

The lower plate portion 2405 extends from the lower end of the connection plate portion 2403 in the direction XO outward from the axis. When viewed from below, one end of the lower plate portion 2405 extends to the main rib 235. The lower plate portion 2405 is provided with a fixing hole 240 b. The lower fixing protrusion 2386 is inserted into the fixing hole 240 b such that the lower plate portion 2405 is fixed.

A lower PCB connection terminal 248 is disposed at the lower plate portion 2405. The lower PCB connection terminal 248 provides an electrical connection point with the lower PCB 250. The lower PCB connection terminal 248 is connected to an upper PCB connection terminal 258 disposed on the lower PCB 250. The region in which the lower PCB connection terminal 248 is disposed is shown in FIG. 30. The lower PCB connection terminal 248 is disposed at the lower surface of the lower plate portion 2405.

Referring to FIGS. 32 to 35, the lower PCB 250 includes an example main board 2501. The main board 2501 is a plate member that is disposed horizontally. The guide recesses 250 a are formed in the main board 2501. The guide recesses 250 a are arranged along the circumference of the main board 2501 at intervals. The guide recesses 250 a are formed from the edge of the main board 2501 toward the central axis X.

The upper PCB connection terminal 258 is disposed at the main board 2501. The upper PCB connection terminal 258 is disposed at the upper surface of the main board 2501. The upper PCB connection terminal 258 provides an electrical connection point with the upper PCB 240. The upper PCB connection terminal 258 is connected to the lower PCB connection terminal 248, which is disposed on the upper PCB 240. The region in which the upper PCB connection terminal 258 is disposed is shown in FIG. 32.

The communication module 26 is disposed at the main board 2501. The communication module 26 may be disposed at the upper surface of the main board 2501. The communication module 26 includes an antenna 253 for transmitting and receiving a signal over the network. Referring to FIG. 32, the antenna 253 may be patterned on the main board 2501. In another example, an additional antenna 253 may be disposed at a place other than the main board 2501.

The acceleration sensor 257 may be disposed at the main board 2501. The acceleration sensor 257 may be disposed at the upper surface of the main board 2501. The region in which the acceleration sensor 257 is disposed is shown in FIG. 32.

The lower PCB 250 includes an element protection cover 259 for protecting elements disposed on the main board 2501. The element protection cover 259 may be disposed at the upper surface of the main board 2501. The element protection cover 259 covers the elements disposed on the main board 2501.

In some implementations, the power supply device 254 may be disposed at the main board 2501. The power supply device 254 includes a rechargeable battery 2541 for supplying power. The power supply device 254 may include an abnormal current interruption unit 2542 for interrupting power when abnormal current is supplied from the battery 2541. The power supply device 254 may include a battery connection line 2543 for electrically connecting the battery 2541 to the abnormal current interruption unit 2542. The power supply device 254 includes a board-side connector 2548 disposed at the main board 2501 for supplying current from the battery 2541 to the main board 2501. The power supply device 254 includes a conductor-side connector 2547 connected to the board-side connector 2548. One of the board-side connector 2548 and the conductor-side connector 2547 is a socket, and the other of the board-side connector 2548 and the conductor-side connector 2547 is a plug. The power supply device 254 includes a connector connection line 2545 for electrically connecting the conductor-side connector 2547 to the abnormal current interruption unit 2542.

The power supply device 254 includes a replacement module 254 a that is replaceable when needed. The replacement module 254 a includes the battery 2541, the abnormal current interruption unit 2542, the battery connection line 2543, the conductor-side connector 2547, and the connector connection line 2545. The power supply device 254 includes the replacement module 254 a and the board-side connector 2548.

The battery 2541 is disposed at the lower surface of the main board 2501. When viewed from below, the battery 2541 is circular, and is disposed such that the center of the battery 2541 is located at a point spaced apart from the central axis X. The battery 2541 may be electrically connected to the charging terminal 255.

The abnormal current interruption unit 2542 is disposed at the lower surface of the main board 2501. The abnormal current interruption unit 2542 may be a plate member that is perpendicular to the main board 2501.

The board-side connector 2548 is disposed at the upper surface of the main board 2501. The conductor-side connector 2547 is disposed at the upper side of the main board 2501. The connector connection line 2545 connects the abnormal current interruption unit 2542, which is disposed at the lower surface of the main board 2501, and the conductor-side connector 2547, which is disposed at the upper side of the main board 2501, to each other. A conductor through hole 250 b is formed in the main board 2501, and the connector connection line 2545 extends through the conductor through hole 250 b.

Referring to FIG. 34, the board-side connector 2548 and the conductor-side connector 2547 extend through the element through hole 238 a 2.

The charging terminal 255 is disposed at the lower surface of the main board 2501. The charging terminal 255 is located in the charging terminal recess 231 c. When discharged, the battery 2541 may be charged through the charging terminal 255.

The reset button 252 is disposed at the lower surface of the main board 2501. The reset button 252 is disposed in the button hole 231 d in the direction XI inward toward the axis. In the case in which the lower guides 237 are inserted into the guide recesses 250 a, the disposition between the reset button 252 and the sensor hole 231 b and the disposition between the upper PCB connection terminal 258 and the lower PCB connection terminal 248 are achieved as desired.

Referring to FIGS. 36 to 38, an example transmission member 260 is located in the transmission member location hole 231 a of the side case 230. The transmission member 260 includes a front window 261 exposed to the outside, a catching portion 263 for enabling the transmission member 260 to be caught by the side member 231, and a disposition guide 264 for guiding the disposition of elements at the rear of the transmission member 260.

The side member 231 includes an inclined surface S having different distances from the central axis X in the vertical direction. The inclined surface S forms an acute angle with the central axis X in an imaginary vertical section including the central axis X. In this case, the side member 231 includes an inclined surface S that is gradually distant from the central axis X in the upward direction.

The transmission member location hole 231 a is formed in the inclined surface S of the side member 231. When the window 261 is viewed from the front, the edge of the window 261 protrudes so as to correspond to the inclined surface S of the side member 231. Referring to FIG. 36, in an arbitrary horizontal section, the extent to which the surface of the edge of the window 261 protrudes in the direction XO outward from the axis is substantially proportional to the extent to which the surface of the side member adjacent to the window 261 protrudes in the direction XO outward from the axis. The protruding surface of the edge of the window 261 may have substantially the same inclination as the inclined surface S.

When the window 261 is viewed from the front, the central part of the window 261 defines a surface 261 a formed so as to be parallel to the central axis X in an imaginary vertical section including the central axis X.

In the case in which the inclined surface S has an inclination gradually distant from the central axis X in the upward direction, the window 261 includes a vertical portion 261 a formed at the central part and the lower part of the window 261. The vertical portion 261 a defines a surface 261 a formed so as to be parallel to the central axis X in an imaginary vertical section including the central axis X. The vertical portion 261 a is perpendicular to an imaginary horizontal plane (a plane perpendicular to the central axis X).

The lower end of the vertical portion 261 a defines the lower end of the window 261. The lower end of the vertical portion 261 a is connected to the side member 231 at the lower side of the transmission member location hole 231 a. In an imaginary vertical section, the surface of the vertical portion 261 a is disposed on substantially the same vertical line as the surface of the side member 231 at the lower side of the transmission member location hole 231 a. When infrared light is emitted from the rear of the vertical portion 261 a to the front of the vertical portion 261 a, therefore, the infrared light travels straight, without being refracted.

The side member 231 may extend in the circumferential direction. The inclined surface S may be curved in the circumferential direction. The vertical portion 261 a may be curved in the circumferential direction. The circumferential curvature of the vertical portion 261 a is substantially the same as the circumferential curvature of the side member 231 at the lower side of the transmission member location hole 231 a.

The window 261 includes circumferential portions 261 b and 261 c protruding from the upper edge and the left and right edges of the window 261 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The circumferential portions 261 b and 261 c may be formed along the inclined surface S of the side member 231 so as to be gradually distant from the central axis X in the upward direction. The circumferential portions 261 b and 261 c may be formed in a convex shape.

The circumferential portions 261 b and 261 c include an upper circumferential portion 261 b protruding forward from the upper part of the window 261 and side circumferential portions 261 c protruding forward from the left and right parts of the window 261. The side circumferential portions 261 c are formed so as to gradually protrude in the upward direction.

When the window 261 is viewed from the front, the region defined by the circumferential portions 261 b and 261 c and the vertical portion 261 a is concave.

The catching portion 263 may protrude from the rear edge of the window 261 upward, downward, leftward, or rightward. The catching portion 263 is formed at the rear side of the transmission member location hole 231 a. The catching portion 263 extends upward, downward, leftward, or rightward such that the transmission member 260 cannot escape from the transmission member location hole 231 a. The catching portion 263 contacts the inner wall of the side member 231 such that the transmission member 260 cannot escape from the transmission member location hole 231 a.

The catching portion 263 may protrude upward or downward. In some implementations, two catching portions 263 protrude from circumferentially opposed sides of the window 261. The catching portions 263 may include a first catching portion 263 a disposed at one side of the window 261 and a second catching portion 263 b disposed at the other side of the window 261. The catching portions 263 are caught by the side member 231 adjacent to the transmission member location hole 231 a.

The main body 2A includes an optical signal light-emitting unit for emitting a predetermined optical signal in a specific direction. The optical signal light-emitting unit may be constituted by the proximity sensor 244 and/or the control signal light-emitting unit 243. That is, the optical signal light-emitting unit includes at least one of the proximity sensor 244 and the control signal light-emitting unit 243. In some implementations, the optical signal light-emitting unit includes both the proximity sensor 244 and the control signal light-emitting unit 243.

The optical signal light-emitting unit is disposed at the rear of the window 261. The optical signal light-emitting unit is disposed such that the optical signal passes perpendicularly through the central part of the window 261. The optical signal light-emitting unit is disposed such that the optical signal passes perpendicularly through the vertical portion 261 a.

The disposition guide 264 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the window 261. The disposition guide 264 may include a rib that extends vertically. The disposition guide 264 may partition a space defined at the rear of the window 261 into left and right spaces. A plurality of disposition guides 264 may be arranged side by side. The disposition guides 264 may include a disposition guide 264 a for defining the left space 260 a of the window 261. The disposition guides 264 may include a disposition guide 264 b for defining the right space 260 b of the window 261.

The disposition guide 264 b guides the position of the optical signal light-emitting unit relative to the transmission member 260. The disposition guide 264 b guides the position of the optical signal light-emitting unit relative to the window 261. The optical signal light-emitting units 243 and 244 are disposed respectively in the spaces 260 a and 260 b defined at the rear of the window 261, which are partitioned by the disposition guides 264.

The control signal light-emitting unit 243 and the proximity sensor 244 are disposed respectively in the spaces 260 a and 260 b defined at the rear of the window 261, which are partitioned by the disposition guide 264 b. In some implementations, the control signal light-emitting unit 243 is disposed in the left space 260 a, and the proximity sensor 244 is disposed in the right space 260 b. The disposition guide 264 b guides the positions of the proximity sensor 244 and the control signal light-emitting unit 243 relative to the window 261. As a result, optical signals emitted by the proximity sensor 244 and the control signal light-emitting unit 243 may pass through the window 261 at predetermined angles and may reach predetermined positions. That is, the disposition guide 264 b guides the relative disposition of the transmission member 260, the proximity sensor 244, and the control signal light-emitting unit 243 such that the optical signals pass perpendicularly through the vertical portions 261 a.

The optical signal light-emitting units disposed in the spaces 260 a and 260 b defined at the rear of the window 261 push the rear surface of the window 261 forward such that the catching portions 263 come into tight contact with the inner surface of the side member 231. As a result, the transmission member 260 is fixed to the side member 231.

The optical signal light-emitting units may include module cases 2433 and 2443 for pushing the rear surface of the window 261. The module cases 2433 and 2443 define the front surfaces of the optical signal light-emitting units. The front surfaces of the module cases 2433 and 2443 contact the rear surface of the window 261.

The module cases 2433 and 2443 include a control module case 2433, in which the control signal light-emitting unit 243 is disposed, and a proximity module case 2443, in which the proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 is disposed. The proximity signal light-receiving unit 2442 may be disposed in the proximity module case 2443.

The control module case 2433 may be provided in the front surface thereof with a recess, which is depressed rearward. The control signal light-emitting unit 243 may be disposed in the recess and may emit an optical signal forward. The proximity module case 2443 may be provided in the front surface thereof with a recess, which is depressed rearward. The proximity signal light-emitting unit 2441 may be disposed in the recess and may emit an optical signal forward. In addition, the proximity module case 2443 may be provided in the front surface thereof with an additional recess, which is depressed rearward. The proximity signal light-receiving unit 2442 may be disposed in the additional recess and may receive the optical signal returning from the front.

The front surface of the control module case 2433 and the front surface of the proximity module case 2443 may contact the rear surface of the window 261 to push the window 261 forward. The disposition of the control module case 2433 and the proximity module case 2443 is guided by the disposition guides 264.

Referring to FIG. 36, an optical signal emitted by the optical signal light-emitting unit forward from the rear of the transmission member 260 (in the direction XO outward from the axis) passes perpendicularly through the vertical portion 261 a and travels straight without being refracted. An arrow IRc shown in FIG. 36 indicates an optical signal that travels straight without being refracted.

If the central part of the window 261 (i.e. the part through which the optical signal passes) is disposed so as to be parallel to the inclined surface S, the optical signal passing through the window 261 is refracted downward. An arrow IRd shown in FIG. 36 indicates an optical signal that is refracted.

The optical signal emitted by the optical signal light-emitting unit may travel straight a greater distance through the vertical portion 261.

Referring to FIGS. 39 to 42, the bottom case 270 defines the lower surface of the main body 2A. The bottom case 270 may define the lower part of the side surface of the main body 2A. A space is defined in the bottom case 270 in the state in which the bottom case 270 is coupled to the side case 230.

The lower PCB 250 is disposed in the bottom case 270. The lower PCB 250 is coupled to the upper side of the bottom case 270.

The bottom case 270 is provided with a space 270 b in which the battery 2541 is disposed. The bottom case 270 is provided with a space 270 c in which the charging terminal is disposed. The bottom case 270 is provided with a recess 270 d, in which the reset button is held.

The bottom case 270 includes an outer member 271 defining the external appearance thereof. The outer member 271 includes a lower surface. The outer member 271 includes a circumferential surface formed around the circumference thereof.

The direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in the outer member 271. The direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in the lower side of the outer member 271. When viewed from below, the direction-setting recess 270 a is formed in the edge of the outer member 271. The direction-setting recess 270 a is defined by the depression 2711 of the outer member 271.

The bottom case 270 includes a side case-coupling portion 273, which is coupled to the side case 230. A plurality of side case-coupling portions 273 may be arranged along the circumference of the bottom case 270 at intervals. The side case-coupling portions 273 protrude upward from the upper end of the outer member 271.

For example, the side case-coupling portions 273 are provided with coupling recesses 273 a. Each of the coupling recesses 273 a may be depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The circumferential length of each of the coupling recesses 273 a may be greater than the vertical length of each of the coupling recesses 273 a. The coupling recesses 273 a may be arranged along the circumference of the support frame 221 at intervals.

The side case-coupling portions 273 are coupled to the bottom case-coupling portions 2332 of the side case 230. One selected from each of the side case-coupling portions 273 and each of the bottom case-coupling portions 2332 is provided with a coupling recess, and the other selected from each of the side case-coupling portions 273 and each of the bottom case-coupling portions 2332 is provided with a protrusion, which is engaged into the coupling recess. For instance, the side case-coupling portions 273 are provided with coupling recesses 273 a, and the bottom case-coupling portions 2332 are provided with protrusions, which are engaged into the coupling recess 273 a.

The upper end of the circumferential surface of the outer member 271 contacts the lower end of the side case 230. The bottom case 270 includes an edge insertion rib 272 protruding upward from the circumferential surface of the outer member 271 and extending along the circumference of the outer member 271. The edge insertion rib 272 extends along the upper edge of the outer member 271. The edge insertion rib 272 may be ring-shaped. The edge insertion rib 272 is formed at a point spaced apart from the edge of the upper end of the outer member 271 by a predetermined distance (a distance corresponding to the thickness of the lower end of the side case 230) toward the central axis X. The side surface of the edge insertion rib 272 in the direction XO outward from the axis contacts the inner surface of the side case 230.

The side case-coupling portions 273 protrude upward from the edge insertion rib 272. The reset button disposition recess 270 d is formed in the edge insertion rib 272.

The bottom case 270 includes a charging terminal guide rib 277 for guiding the disposition of the charging terminal 255. The charging terminal guide rib 277 includes a bottom guide 277 a for guiding the disposition of the lower surface of the charging terminal 255, an end guide 277 b for guiding the end of the charging terminal 255 in the direction XO outward from the axis, and side guides 277 c for guiding circumferentially opposed surfaces of the charging terminal 255.

The charging terminal disposition space 270 c is provided at the upper side of the bottom guide 277 a and the end guide 277 b. The charging terminal disposition space 270 c is provided between the two side guides 277 c.

The bottom guide 277 a includes a rib protruding upward from the outer member 271. The bottom guide 277 a includes a rib extending in the leftward and rightward direction. The upper end of the bottom guide 277 a supports the lower surface of the charging terminal 255.

The end guide 277 b is formed at the upper end of the outer member 271. The edge insertion rib 272 is not disposed at the position at which the end guide 277 b is formed. The end guide 277 b may be formed so as to be depressed such that the end of the charging terminal 255 is engaged into the upper end of the outer member 271.

The two side guides 277 c may be disposed at the left and right side surfaces of the charging terminal 255. The side guides 277 c include ribs protruding upward from the outer member 271. The side guides 277 c extend along the side surfaces of the charging terminal 255. The height of the upper end of each of the side guides 277 c is substantially equal to the height of the upper end of the edge insertion rib 272.

The bottom case 270 includes a battery guide rib 275 for guiding the disposition of the battery 2541. The battery guide rib 275 contacts the side surface of the battery 2541. The battery guide rib 275 extends along the side surface of the battery 2541.

The lower surface of the battery 2541 may be supported by the bottom surface of the outer member 271. When viewed from above, the battery 2541 is circular, and is disposed such that the center of the battery 2541 is located at a point spaced apart from the central axis X. The battery 2541 is eccentrically disposed in the bottom case 270 or offset from the central axis X. The battery 2541 has a diameter less than the diameter of the bottom case 270. The battery 2541 may be disposed such that the side surface of the battery 2541 in the direction XO outward from the axis contacts the inner surface of the bottom case 270.

The battery guide rib 275 is formed so as to surround the side surface of the battery 2541 in the direction opposite to the direction in which the battery 2541 is eccentric.

The battery guide rib 275 includes ribs 275 a and 275 c, formed at positions at which the ribs 275 a and 275 c do not interfere with the charging terminal 255, the reset button 252, and the abnormal current interruption unit 2542 such that the ribs 275 a and 275 c protrude to predetermined heights. The ribs 275 a and 275 c include a rib 275 a extending from one side of the charging terminal 255 and a rib 275 c extending from the other side of the charging terminal 255.

The battery guide rib 275 includes a rib 275 b protruding to a height less than the heights of the ribs 275 a and 275 c so as to prevent interference with the charging terminal 255. One side surface of the rib 275 b guides the side surface of the battery 2541, and the charging terminal 255 is disposed at the upper side of the rib 275 b.

The battery guide rib 275 includes a rib 275 d protruding to a height less than the heights of the ribs 275 a and 275 c so as to prevent interference with the abnormal current interruption unit 2542. One side surface of the rib 275 d guides the side surface of the battery 2541, and the other components of the power supply device 254 excluding the battery 2541 may be disposed at the upper side of the rib 275 d. A cylindrical battery disposition space 270 b is defined between the concave surface of the battery guide rib 275 and the inner surface of the outer member 271.

Referring to FIGS. 43 to 47, the container 2B includes an example container body 280, which has therein an external coupling portion 283 and at least a portion of the inner portion 206, and an example container side member 290 defining the outer portion 205 with respect to the container body 280 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The container 2B includes a container body 280, which defines a bottom portion 281 a and an inclined portion 281 b, and a container side member, which defines an outward surface 291.

The container 2B includes a main body-coupling portion 280 a, formed by depressing the central part of the container 2B downward.

When viewed from above, the container body 280 is circular. The central part of the container body 280 is concave downward. The side surface of the container body 280 protrudes upward so as to have a predetermined height.

The container body 280 includes an inner surface 281, which contacts the main body 2A when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The inner surface 281 includes a bottom portion 281 a, which is disposed at the central part thereof, and an inclined portion 281 b, which defines an inclined surface formed from the edge of the bottom portion 281 a to the upper end of the container body 280. The inclined portion 281 b may be formed so as to be gradually inclined in the direction XO outward from the axis. The inclined portion 281 b is generally formed so as to be concave.

The inclined portion 281 b is formed in the circumferential direction. The inclined portion 281 b extends in the circumferential direction.

The direction-setting protrusion 285 is formed on the inclined portion 281 b. The direction-setting protrusion 285 may be formed on the bottom portion 281 a.

The container body 280 includes a contact surface 282 configured to contact the container side member 290 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The contact surface 282 contacts an inward surface 292. The contact surface 282 includes an inclined surface formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction.

The contact surface 282 is provided with a catching recess 280 b, which is depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The catching recess 280 b may be formed in the lower part of the contact surface 282. A catching recess depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis may be formed in the lower part of the contact surface 282. The contact surface 282 may be provided with a catching recess 280 b, which is depressed toward the inclined portion 281 b in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The catching recess 280 b may be provided in substantially the same horizontal plane as the inclined portion 281 b.

The catching recess 280 b may extend in the circumferential direction. The catching recess 280 b may be hidden by the container side member 290. A coupling hook 295 formed at the container side member 290 is inserted into the catching recess 280 b in order to couple the container body 280 to the container side member 290.

In some implementations, the catching recess 280 b may not be provided, and the thickness between the lower part of the inclined portion 281 b and the lower part of the contact surface 282 may be greater than the thicknesses of the other portions due to the inclination of the inclined portion 281 b and the inclination of the contact surface 282. In the case in which the catching recess 280 b is provided, the thickness of the lower part of the container body 280 may be reduced, which is advantageous in injection-molding.

A direction-setting protrusion space 280 d, which is concave toward the direction-setting protrusion 285, is defined at the lower side of the contact surface 282. The direction-setting protrusion space 280 d may be connected to the catching recess 280 b. The direction-setting protrusion space 280 d is hidden by the container side member 290.

Referring to FIGS. 46C and 46D, an example container 2B′ according to a modification includes only a container body 280′ without the container side member 290. The following description will be given based on the difference between the modification and the implementations described above. An example catching recess 280 b′ is exposed to the outside. In this case, an attachment-detachment protrusion 298′ protrudes from a container body 280′. The container body 280′ is provided at the upper side thereof with a main body-coupling portion 280 a′, to which the main body 2A is detachably attached. The container body 280′ includes an inner portion 281′, which is depressed downward to define the main body-coupling portion 280 a′. The inner portion 281′ includes a bottom portion 281 a, which defines the bottom thereof, and an inclined portion 281 b′, which is gradually inclined upward from the bottom portion 281 a in the direction XO outward from the axis.

The container body 280′ includes outer portions 291′ and 283′, which are exposed to the outside when the main body 2A is coupled to the container body 280′. The outer portions 291′ and 283′ include an outward surface 291′ in the direction XO outward from the axis. The outward surface 291′ is provided with a catching recess 280 b′, which is depressed toward the inclined portion 281 b′ in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The outward surface 291′ defines an inclined surface that is formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction. The catching recess 280 b′, which is depressed in the direction XI inward toward the axis, is formed in the outer part of the outward surface 291′. The remainder of the structure related to the modification is obvious from the structure of the container body 280 according to this case, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The contact surface 282 is provided with a guide recess 280 c for guiding the insertion of the container body 280 into a central opening 290 c formed in the container side member 290. The guide recess 280 c is formed in the contact surface 292 so as to be concave in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The guide recess 280 c extends along the inclined surface of the contact surface 282. The guide recess 280 c extends vertically. The depth of the guide recess 280 c may be gradually increased from the upper side to the lower side. The guide recess 280 c is formed in the upper side of the catching recess 280 b. The lower end of the guide recess 280 c may be connected to the catching recess 280 b.

A guide protrusion 296 formed on the container side member 290 may be inserted into the guide recess 280 c to limit the vertical movement of the container side member 290 for assembly. The guide protrusion 296 may be inserted into the guide recess 280 c from above so as to slide downward along the guide recess 280 c.

The container body 280 includes the external coupling portion 283, which is located at the lower surface of the container body 280. When the container body 280 is viewed from below, the external coupling portion 283 is disposed at the central part of the container body 280. The external coupling portion 283 may be circular.

The edge of the lower surface of the container body 280 defines an edge portion 283 a inclined relative to the horizontal plane. The edge portion 283 a includes an inclined surface, the inclination of which gradually increases in the direction XO outward from the axis. The edge portion 283 a is ring-shaped. The edge portion 283 a is connected to the external coupling portion 283 in the direction XI inward toward the axis and is connected to the lower end of the container side member 290 in the direction XO outward from the axis.

The container 2B is made of a material that can be injection-molded. For example, the container 2B may be made of synthetic resin. The container body 280 is made of a material that can be injection-molded. The container side member 290 is also made of a material that can be injection-molded.

Referring to FIG. 47, the container body 280 is injection-molded using an example injection-molding machine 300 (mold). The container body 280 is injection-molded in the state in which the container body 280 is overturned. For example, the lower part of the container body 280 faces upward such that a gas discharge mark 283 b is formed on the lower surface of the container body 280.

The injection-molding machine 300 includes a first injection-molding unit 301 for injection-molding the inner surface 281 of the container body 280, a second injection-molding unit 302 for injection-molding the contact surface 282 and the guide recess 280 c of the container body 280, a third injection-molding unit 303 for injection-molding the catching recess 280 b and the direction-setting protrusion space 280 d of the container body 280, a fourth injection-molding unit 304 for injection-molding the edge of the lower surface of the container body 280, and a fifth injection-molding unit 305 for injection-molding the central part of the lower surface of the container body 280. In the above description, the terms “first injection-molding unit,” “second injection-molding unit,” “third injection-molding unit,” “fourth injection-molding unit,” and “fifth injection-molding unit” are used only to avoid confusion between designated objects, and do not indicate the sequence or importance of the injection-molding units.

The third injection-molding unit 303 includes a protrusion 304 a for forming the catching recess 280 b and a protrusion 304 b for forming the direction-setting protrusion space 280 d.

When the container body 280 is injection-molded, the gas discharge mark 283 b may be formed on the container body 280. The gas discharge mark 283 b is formed on the lower surface of the container body 280. The gas discharge mark 283 b is formed on the surface of the container body 280 on which the external coupling portion 283 is formed. The gas discharge mark 283 b is formed on the container body 280 in a circular shape. The gas discharge mark 283 b is formed on the container body 280 in a concentrically circular shape. The injection-molding machine 300 may have a gas discharge port in order to form the gas discharge mark 283 b. For instance, the fifth injection-molding unit 305 may have a gas discharge port in order to form the gas discharge mark 283 b.

In some implementations, the container side member 290 is ring-shaped. The container side member 290 is provided in the center thereof with a central opening 290 a. The container body 280 is inserted through the central opening 290 a so as to be coupled to the container side member 290.

The container side member 290 includes a side surface of the outer portion 205 in the direction XO outward from the axis. The container side member 290 includes an outward surface 291, which defines the side surface of the container side member 290 in the direction XO outward from the axis, and an inward surface 292, which defines the side surface of the container side member 290 in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The container side member 290 is configured such that the thickness of the container side member 290 between the outward surface 291 and the inward surface 292 is substantially uniform.

The outward surface 291 includes an inclined surface formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction. The outward surface 291 extends in the circumferential direction. The outward surface 291 defines a portion of the outer portion 205 of the container.

The inward surface 292 includes an inclined surface formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction. The inward surface 292 extends in the circumferential direction. The contact surface 282 contacts the inward surface 292. The lower part of the inward surface 292 contacts the contact surface 282 of the container body 280. The inward surface 292 includes an inwardly exposed surface 292 a, which is exposed to the upper side of the container body 280. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a is disposed at the upper part of the inward surface 292. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a defines the upper part of the inner portion 206 of the container. The inwardly exposed surface 292 a is exposed to the upper side of the inclined portion 281 b.

The inwardly exposed surface 292 a is provided with a coupling hook 295, which is inserted into the catching recess 280 b. A plurality of coupling hooks 295 may be arranged in the circumferential direction at intervals.

The coupling hook 295 protrudes from the inward surface 292. The circumferential length of the coupling hook 295 may be greater than the vertical length of the coupling hook 295. The lower surface of the coupling hook 295 may be gradually inclined upward in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The upper surface of the coupling hook 295 may be horizontally formed so as to be caught by the lower surface of the catching recess 280 b.

The inward surface 292 is provided with a guide protrusion 296, which is inserted into the guide recess 280 c. A plurality of guide protrusions 296 may be arranged in the circumferential direction at intervals. The guide protrusion 296 is formed so as to correspond to the guide recess 280 c.

The guide protrusion 296 protrudes from the inward surface 292. The guide protrusion 296 protrudes in the direction XI inward toward the axis. The vertical length of the guide protrusion 296 may be greater than the circumferential length of the guide protrusion 296.

The attachment-detachment protrusion 298 is formed on the inwardly exposed surface 292 a. The attachment-detachment protrusion 298 protrudes from the inwardly exposed surface 292 a in the direction XI inward toward the axis.

The inclined portion 281 b of the container 2B is a portion that slides when the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The inclined portion 281 b has an inclination formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the downward direction such that the lower corner 279 of the main body 2A can slide smoothly. As a result, it is possible for a user to smoothly attach and detach the main body 2A to and from the container 2B. In addition, it is possible to minimize wear of the lower corner 279 of the main body 2A.

The outward surface 291 of the container 2B has an inclination formed so as to become distant from the central axis X in the downward direction.

Since the outward surface 291 of the container 2B becomes gradually distant from the central axis X in the downward direction and the inclined portion 281 b of the inner surface 281 becomes gradually close to the central axis X in the downward direction, the distance between the outward surface 291 and the inner surface 281 gradually increases in the downward direction. Consequently, the catching recess 280 b is formed in the contact surface 282, which is hidden by the container side member 290, whereby it is possible to provide a recess, into which the coupling hook 295 can be inserted, while reducing injection defects, such as burrs, which may occur due to the increase of the injection thickness.

The structure and function of the main body 2A will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 48 to 55B.

An upper edge E1 of the main body 2A, a lower edge E2 of the main body 2A, a lower edge E3 of the container 2B, and an upper edge E4 of the container 2B, descriptions of which will follow, may extend along the circumference of a predetermined figure. Here, “figure” means an imaginary planar figure disposed on a plane perpendicular to the central axis X. The figure may be a circle, an oval, a polygon, a chamfered polygon, etc. The figure may be an irregularly shaped figure. The figure may be a circle, an oval, or a chamfered polygon. The figure may be a circle, an oval, or a chamfered polygon even if a depression or a protrusion is formed at the circumference of the figure. In the above description, the terms “first figure,” “second figure,” “third figure,” and “fourth figure” are used only to avoid confusion between designated objects, and do not indicate the sequence or importance of the figures.

Referring to FIGS. 48 and 49, on the assumption that a first figure is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the main body 2A includes an upper edge E1 extending along the circumference of the first figure. Referring to FIG. 48, the upper edge E1 may be disposed in an imaginary plane H1.

The first figure may be a circle having a predetermined diameter r1. On the assumption that an imaginary circle having a predetermined diameter r1 is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the main body 2A includes an upper edge E1 extending along the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r1. Referring to FIG. 48, the upper edge E1 may be disposed in the imaginary plane H1.

The upper edge E1 may be circular or arc-shaped. In the case in which a recess or a protrusion is formed at the main body 2A on the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r1, the recess or the protrusion is not included in the upper edge E1, and the upper edge E1 is arc-shaped. Even in the case in which the upper edge E1 is arc-shaped, the upper edge E1 may be approximately circular.

The side surface of the main body 2A in a direction XO outward from the axis is formed further inward in a direction XI inward toward the axis than one of the upper edge E1 and the lower edge E2. The side surface of the main body 2A is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than one of the upper edge E1 and the lower edge E2. In the following description, the side surface of the main body 2A is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the upper edge E1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In some implementations, the structure in which the side surface of the main body 2A is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E2 is obvious from the structure in which the side surface of the main body 2A is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the upper edge E1, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

The side surface of the main body 2A in the direction XO outward from the axis may be formed further inward in the direction XI inward toward the axis than the upper edge E1. The side surface of the main body 2A may be formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the upper edge E1. In the case in which the main body 2A perpendicularly approaches an external horizontal plane G (in the state in which the central axis X is parallel to the horizontal plane G), the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A contacts the external plane G first.

Referring to FIG. 50, in the case in which the upper edge E1 perpendicularly contacts the external horizontal plane G in the state in which the main body 2A is separated from the container 2B, the main body 2A may tilt toward the lower surface 278 of the main body 2A (i.e. in a direction T1). The reason for this is that the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A is supported by the horizontal plane G, whereas the lower edge E2 of the main body 2A is not supported by the horizontal plane G.

In the case in which the main body 2A is manufactured so as to have approximately circular edges E1 and E2, therefore, the main body 2A may be overturned within a short time in the direction T1 (i.e. toward the lower surface 278 of the main body 2A) when the main body 2A is separated from the ground or rolls along the ground. Consequently, the possibility of losing the main body 2A may decrease, and the user's excessive movement to hold the main body 2A so as to prevent it from rolling far away may be reduced.

On the assumption that a second figure is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the main body 2A includes a lower edge E2 extending along the circumference of the second figure. Referring to FIG. 48, the lower edge E2 may be disposed in an imaginary plane H2.

In some implementations, the second figure may be a circle having a predetermined diameter r2. On the assumption that an imaginary circle having a predetermined diameter r2 is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the main body 2A may include a lower edge E2 extending along the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r2. The diameter r2 is different from the diameter r1. The diameter r2 may be smaller from the diameter r1.

Referring to FIG. 48, the lower edge E1 may be constituted by a set of points contacting a horizontal plane G such that at least one of the upper edge E1 and the side of the main body 2A contacts the horizontal plane G at the same time. (FIG. 48 shows that the lower edge E2 and the side of the main body 2A contact the horizontal plane G at the same time, and FIG. 51 shows that the lower edge E2, the upper edge E1 and the side of the main body 2A contact the horizontal plane G at the same time.) Particularly, in the case in which the border of the lower surface 278 of the main body 2A is curved, as shown in FIG. 48, it may be defined as the lower edge E2, as described above.

Referring to FIG. 48, a point q on the side surface of the main body 2A and the lower edge E2 simultaneously contact the horizontal plane G. Referring to FIG. 48, the lower edge E2 may be disposed in the imaginary plane H2.

The lower edge E2 may be circular or arc-shaped. In the case in which a recess or a protrusion is formed at the main body 2A on the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r2, the recess or the protrusion is not included in the lower edge E2, and the lower edge E2 is arc-shaped. Even in the case in which the lower edge E2 is arc-shaped, the lower edge E2 may be approximately circular.

Referring to FIGS. 51 and 53, when the main body 2A is overturned toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1) while rolling on the horizontal plane G, the lower edge E2 contacts the horizontal plane G. In this case, the center of gravity of the main body 2A is further biased further toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1) due to the tilting of the main body 2A. Since the diameter r2 is smaller than that the diameter r1, the main body 2A rolls while turning toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1). Afterwards, the main body 2A rolls while turning in the state in which only the lower edge E2 contacts the horizontal plane G. When the main body 2A completely tilts to the extent that the lower surface 278 contacts the horizontal plane G, the rolling motion of the main body 2A is stopped.

FIG. 53 is a conceptual view showing imaginary tracks formed by the upper edge E1 and the lower edge E2 of the main body on the horizontal plane when the main body 2A is overturned while rolling along the horizontal plane. In FIG. 53, a track 11 is formed by the upper edge E1, and a track 12 or 13 is formed by the lower edge E2. The main body rolls while traveling straight or turning somewhat from a point p1 to a point p2 in the state in which the upper edge E1 contacts the horizontal plane G. The main body 2A tilts toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1), and the lower edge E2 contacts the horizontal plane G from a point p3. Afterwards, the upper edge E1 is separated from the horizontal plane G, and the main body 2A turns in the state in which the lower edge E2 contacts the horizontal plane G. Track 12 indicates a relatively small degree of turning, and track 13 indicates a relatively large degree of turning. The degree of turning may gradually increase as the main body 2 a moves while turning. As the result of turning, the main body 2A may return to the initial position thereof. Afterwards, the main body 2A is completely overturned, and the lower surface 278 contacts the horizontal plane G. As a result, the movement of the main body 2A is stopped. When the main body 2A rolls on the horizontal plane G, it is possible to prevent the main body 2A from rolling far away as the result of overturning, turning, and stopping of the main body 2A.

The side surface of the main body 2A may include an inclined surface formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the downward direction. The side surface of the main body 2A may include a plurality of inclined surfaces formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the downward direction. In this case, the inclined surfaces may have different inclinations. In addition, the inclination of the inclined surface of the side surface of the main body 2A may be gradually changed in the downward direction. A recess or a hole may be formed in the inclined surface of the side surface of the main body 2A.

The height h of the main body 2A may be smaller than the diameter r2. In the case in which the height of the main body 2A is smaller, a side-standing state, in which the lower edge E2 and at least one of the upper edge E1 and the side surface of the main body 2A simultaneously contact the horizontal plane G, may become more unstable. As a result, complete overturning of the main body 2A (i.e. the lower surface 278 contacting the horizontal plane G) may be more smoothly and rapidly achieved.

The main body 2A includes a lower corner 279 connected to the lower side of the lower edge E2. The lower corner 279 is chamfered. The lower corner 279 is rounded. The upper end of the lower corner 279 is connected to the lower edge E2, and the lower end of the lower corner 279 is connected to the lower surface 278. The lower corner 279 defines a surface closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E2. The lower corner 279 may define a surface at a position higher than the lower surface 278.

Referring to FIG. 53, during overturning of the main body 2A, the main body 2A tilts further toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1) even after the lower edge E2 contacts the horizontal plane G. At this time, the lower corner 279 smoothly contacts the horizontal plane G, and then the lower surface 279 smoothly contacts the horizontal plane G. As a result, it is possible to reduce impact that is applied to the lower surface 278 during overturning of the main body 2A. That is, impact applied to the main body 2A is reduced during overturning of the main body 2A, thereby reducing the possibility that apparatuses will be broken or damaged.

In some implementations, the lower corner 279 defines a surface that becomes gradually closer to the central axis X in the downward direction. During overturning of the main body 2A, the main body 2A tilts further toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1). At this time, the contact point of the lower corner 279 that contacts the horizontal plane G becomes gradually closer to the central axis X of the main body 2A. Consequently, the main body 2A is more rapidly turned. As a result, it is possible to minimize the movement distance of the main body 2A depending on the turning of the main body 2A.

Referring to FIGS. 48 and 52, the battery 2541 may be disposed in the lower part of the main body 2A. The case of the main body 2A may be made of a material exhibiting relatively low specific gravity, such as synthetic resin. For example, the switch panel 210, the switch operation unit 220, the side case 230, and the bottom case 270 are made of a material exhibiting low specific gravity, such as synthetic resin. In some implementations, parts are disposed in the inner space of the main body 2A at relatively low density, except for the space in which the battery 2541 is disposed. The battery 2541 is disposed in the inner space of the main body 2A at relatively high density. In addition, the battery is made of a metal material. Consequently, the battery 2541 may exhibit high specific gravity. The battery 2541 may be disposed in the lower part of the main body 2A such that the center of gravity M of the main body 2A is located at the lower side of the main body 2A.

In some implementations, the battery 2541 may be disposed lower than an imaginary plane Hm that divides the height of the main body 2A into two halves. The battery 2541 may be generally cylindrical. The height of the battery 2541 may be less than half of the height h of the main body 2A.

Referring to FIG. 52, in the case in which the center of gravity M of the main body 2A is located at the lower side of the main body 2A, the main body 2A may be more rapidly overturned toward the lower surface 278 (in the direction T1) when the main body 2A rolls along the horizontal plane G. Referring to FIG. 53, in the case in which the center of gravity M of the main body 2A is located at the lower side of the main body 2A, the degree of turning of the main body 2A is increased, with the result that a relatively rapidly turning track 13 is formed, which is advantageous in more rapid stopping of the main body 2A.

Referring to FIG. 54, when viewed from below the main body 2A, the battery 2541 may be disposed at an eccentric position. The eccentric position of the battery 2541 means that a vertical axis Mb passing through the center of gravity of the battery 2541 is spaced apart from the central axis X of the main body 2A by a predetermined distance in a predetermined direction ec. In the case in which the battery 2541, the specific gravity of which is relatively high, is disposed eccentrically, the center of gravity M of the main body 2A is eccentric in the direction ec in which the battery 2541 is eccentric. The center of gravity M of the main body 2A is intentionally spaced apart from the central axis X.

When viewed from below, the battery 2541 is formed to have a circular shape having a diameter less than the diameter r1 and the diameter r2. The battery 2541, the diameter of which is relatively small, may be disposed in the eccentric direction ec so as to contact the inner surface of the side member 231. In this case, the side surface of the battery 2541 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the side member 231 in the direction opposite to the eccentric direction ec. The diameter of the battery 2541 may be less than 0.8 times the diameter r2.

The battery guide rib 272 fixes the battery 2541 such that the battery 2541 is disposed at the eccentric position.

Referring to FIGS. 55A and 55B, in the case in which the center of gravity M of the main body 2A moves upward from the horizontal plane G when the main body 2A (or an assembly of the main body 2A and the container 2B) rolls along the horizontal plane G, torque is applied to the main body 2A in a direction T2 in which the center of gravity M of the main body 2A moves downward. FIG. 55A shows that the center of gravity M is located at the right side of the main body 2A, whereby torque is applied to the main body 2A in a rightward direction T2, and FIG. 55B shows that the center of gravity M is located at the left side of the main body 2A, whereby torque is applied to the main body 2A in a leftward direction T3.

When the kinetic energy of the rolling motion of the main body 2A is less than a predetermined value, therefore, the kinetic energy may be completely converted into the potential energy, with the result that the main body 2A moves no farther away. The predetermined value of the kinetic energy means the minimum kinetic energy at which the motion direction is maintained even when the center of gravity M moves to the highest position. When the main body 2A rolls, therefore, the main body may not move far away. In addition, overturning of the main body 2A is more smoothly performed during the rolling of the main body 2A due to the eccentric position of the center of gravity M. The reason for this is that torque is applied in the direction opposite to the motion direction, with the result that the motion speed and the centrifugal force (in the direction opposite to the direction in which the main body 2A tilts) are reduced, which is more advantageous in overturning of the main body 2A.

Referring to FIGS. 56 and 57, on the assumption that a third figure is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the container 2B includes a lower edge E3 extending along the circumference of the third figure. Referring to FIG. 56, the lower edge E3 may be disposed in an imaginary plane H3.

The third figure may be a circle having a predetermined diameter r3. On the assumption that an imaginary circle having a predetermined diameter r3 is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the container 2B includes a lower edge E3 extending along the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r3. Referring to FIG. 56, the lower edge E3 may be disposed in the imaginary plane H3.

In some implementations, the lower edge E3 may be circular or arc-shaped. In the case in which a recess or a protrusion is formed at the container 2B on the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r3, the recess or the protrusion is not included in the lower edge E3, and the lower edge E3 is arc-shaped. Even in the case in which the lower edge E3 is arc-shaped, the lower edge E3 may be approximately circular.

The side surface of the container 2B in the direction XO outward from the axis is formed further inward in the direction XI inward toward the axis than one of the lower edge E3 and the upper edge E4 of the container 2B, a description of which will follow. The side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than one of the lower edge E3 and the upper edge E4. In the following description, the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure in which the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the upper edge E4 of the container 2B is obvious from the structure in which the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

The side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B in the direction XO outward from the axis may be formed further inward in the direction XI inward toward the axis than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B. The side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B in the direction XO outward from the axis may be formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B. In the case in which the container 2B perpendicularly approaches an external horizontal plane G (in the state in which the central axis X is parallel to the horizontal plane G), the lower edge E3 of the container 2B contacts the external plane G first.

In the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B, one of the upper edge E1 and the lower edge E3 is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the other. In some implementations, the upper edge E1 is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B.

The diameter r3 is different from the diameter r1. In some implementations, the diameter r3 is greater than the diameter r1.

The accessory 2A and 2B is configured such that the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A and the lower edge E3 of the container 2B can simultaneously contact the horizontal plane G in the state in which the main body 2A is vertically coupled to the container 2B.

Referring to FIGS. 58 and 59, when the accessory 2A and 2B rolls in the state in which the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A and the lower edge E3 of the container 2B contact the horizontal plane G, the accessory 2A and 2B turns to one side, since the diameter r1 and the diameter r3 are different from each other. Referring to FIG. 58, the diameter r1 is smaller than the diameter r3, and therefore the accessory 2A and 2B turns to the upper edge E1 (in a direction T4). FIG. 59 shows a track 14 formed by the upper edge E1 and a track 15 formed by the lower edge E3. When the accessory 2A and 2B rolls in the state in which the upper edge E1 and the lower edge E3 contact a point p4 and a point p5, respectively, the accessory 2A and 2B turns to the edge having the smaller diameter (in the direction T4). As the result of turning of the accessory 2A and 2B, the accessory 2A and 2B may return to the initial position thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 56 and 57, on the assumption that a fourth figure is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the container 2B includes an upper edge E4 extending along the circumference of the fourth figure. Referring to FIG. 56, the upper edge E4 may be disposed in an imaginary plane H4. The upper edge E4 may be disposed on the outer border between the main body 2A and the container 2B.

The fourth figure may be a circle having a predetermined diameter r4. On the assumption that an imaginary circle having a predetermined diameter r4 is disposed perpendicular to the central axis X, the container 2B includes an upper edge E4 extending along the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r4. Referring to FIG. 56, the upper edge E4 may be disposed in the imaginary plane H3.

The diameter r4 is different from the diameter r3. The diameter r4 may be smaller from the diameter r3.

When the container 2B is separated from the ground or rolls along the ground, the container 2B may be overturned toward the upper edge E4 within a short time. The principle by which the container 2B is overturned is identical to the principle by which the main body 2A is overturned, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The possibility of losing the container 2B may be minimized, and then user's excessive movement to hold the container 2B so as to prevent it from rolling far away may be reduced.

The upper edge E4 may be circular or arc-shaped. In the case in which a recess or a protrusion is formed at the container 2B on the circumference of the imaginary circle having the diameter r4, the recess or the protrusion is not included in the upper edge E4, and the upper edge E4 is arc-shaped. Even in the case in which the upper edge E4 is arc-shaped, the upper edge E4 may be approximately circular.

The side surface of the container 2B in the direction XO outward from the axis is formed further inward in the direction XI inward toward the axis than one of the lower edge E3 and the upper edge E4 of the container 2B. The side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than one of the lower edge E3 and the upper edge E4. In the following description, the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The structure in which the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the upper edge E4 of the container 2B is obvious from the structure in which the side surface of the container 2B is formed at a position closer to the central axis X than the lower edge E3 of the container 2B, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

The upper edge E4 of the container 2B may be constituted by a set of points contacting a horizontal plane G such that at least one of the lower edge E3 and the side of the container 2B contacts the horizontal plane G at the same time. (FIG. 56 shows that the upper edge E4 of the container 2B, the lower edge E3 of the container 2B and the side of the container 2B contact the horizontal plane G at the same time.)

The side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B may include an inclined surface formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction. The side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B may include a plurality of inclined surfaces formed so as to become close to the central axis X in the upward direction. In some implementations, the inclined surfaces may have different inclinations. In addition, the inclination of the inclined surface of the side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B may be gradually changed in the upward direction. A recess or a hole may be formed in the inclined surface of the side surface (the outward surface 291) of the container 2B.

The height of the container 2B may be smaller than the diameter r4. In the case in which the height of the container 2B is smaller, a container side-standing state, in which the upper edge E4 of the container 2B and at least one of the lower edge E3 and the side of the container 2B simultaneously contact the horizontal plane G, may become more unstable. As a result, complete overturning of the container 2B may be more smoothly and rapidly achieved.

Hereinafter, an apparatus and method for manufacturing the accessory 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 60A to 63.

As previously described, the container 2B includes a main body-coupling portion, to which the main body 2A is separably coupled, and the main body 2A includes an exposed portion 201, which is exposed in the state in which the main body 2A is coupled to the container 2B. The exposed portion 201 is formed in the upper part of the main body 2A. The main body 2A includes a side member 231, which defines the side surface of the exposed portion 201. The corner of the upper end of the side member 231 in the direction XO outward from the axis defines the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A.

In order to separate the main body 2A from the container 2B of the accessory 2 having the above-stated structure, a user holds the side member 231, which corresponds to the exposed portion 201 of the main body 2A, using his/her hand. In this case, the user's hand contacts the upper edge E1. Particularly, when the user separates the main body 2A from the container 2B, the user firmly holds the side member 231, and the upper edge E1 applies pressure to the user's hand.

The upper edge E1 has a curved corner. Consequently, the pressure that the upper edge E1 applies to the user's hand may be distributed, and the user's sensation of gripping the main body 2A may be improved.

In addition, as previously described, the main body 2A includes a side member 231, which defines the external appearance of the circumference thereof about the central axis X. The side surface of the side member 231 defines an inclined surface that is formed so as to be gradually distant from the central axis X in the upward direction. The corner of the upper end of the side member 231 in the direction XO outward from the axis defines the upper edge E1 of the main body 2A.

In this case, the upper edge E1 may define a corner having an acute angle in an imaginary vertical section including the central axis X. When the user holds the main body 2A using his/her hand, therefore, the upper edge E1 may be more intensively applied to the use's hand. For this reason, the upper edge E1 may have a curved corner.

The corner of the upper end of the side member in the direction XI inward toward the axis may define an inner edge, and the inner edge may have an angled corner. Since the use's hand does not contact the inner edge, the user's sensation of gripping the main body 2A is not affected by the inner edge.

In some implementations, the top surface of the inner edge is substantially aligned with the top surface of the edge of the switch panel 210, which is adjacent thereto, and the end of the edge of the switch panel 210 contacts the inner surface of the side member 231. The inner edge has an angled corner such that the upper surface, which connects the switch panel 210 to the upper end of the side member 231, may extend smoothly.

In addition, when the dome-shaped switch panel 210 is pushed downward, elastic deformation of the switch panel 210, by which the switch panel 210 is extended toward the edge, is prevented by the inner wall of the upper end of the side member 231. The inner edge has an angled corner such that the end of the edge of the switch panel 210 can be more stably located on the inner wall of the upper end of the side member 231.

In some implementations, the main body 2A is made of a material that can be injection-molded. The side case 230 is made of a material that can be injection-molded. The side member 231 is made of a material that can be injection-molded. An example of the material that can be injection-molded may be synthetic resin.

Hereinafter, an example apparatus for manufacturing the accessory including the upper edge E1 having the curved corner will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 and 60A to 63. In FIG. 29, part Z indicates the section of the side member 231. FIGS. 60A and 60B are sectional view of injection-molding machines 310 a and 310 b used in a process in which the side case 231 is injection-molded, showing the section Z of the side member 231. FIGS. 61 to 63 show a plurality of injection-molding units 311 b, 312 b, and 313 b constituting the injection-molding machine 310 b. The structure of a fastening device for maintaining coupling force between the injection-molding units 311 b, 312 b, and 313 b and the structure for supplying a material to be injection-molded are omitted from FIGS. 61 to 63. However, various implementations may be realized by those skilled in the art.

The accessory manufacturing apparatus includes an injection-molding machine 310 b for injection-molding the side case 230, which is one of the parts constituting the accessory 2. For example, the accessory manufacturing apparatus includes an injection-molding machine 310 b for injection-molding the side member 231.

Referring to FIG. 60B, the injection-molding machine 310 b includes an injection-molding unit 312 b in which surfaces defining the upper end of the side member 231, the upper edge E1, and the upper part of the side surface of the side member 231 are integrally connected to each other.

The injection-molding unit 312 b may be configured such that the corner defining the upper edge E1 is concave. The upper edge E1 may have a curved corner.

In some implementations, the injection-molding machine 310 b may form a parting line PLb on only the inner edge of the side member 231, among the upper end of the side member 231, the upper edge E1, and the inner edge of the side member 231. The parting line may leave a trace during injection molding. Particularly, in the case in which the parting line is formed on the corner, the corner of the injection-molded product may be angled.

For example, in the example injection-molding machine 310 a of FIG. 60A, two injection-molding units 311 a and 312 a form a parting line PLa on the upper edge E1. In this case, the upper edge E1 has an angled corner.

In example the injection-molding machine 310 b of FIG. 60B, two injection-molding units 311 b and 312 b form a parting line PLb on the inner edge. In this case, the inner edge may have an angled corner, and the upper edge E1 may have a curved corner.

The injection-molding machine 310 b will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 61 to 63. The injection-molding machine 310 b includes an upper injection-molding unit 311 b for defining a molding line of the upper part of the side case 230, a side injection-molding unit 312 b for defining a molding line of the side of the side case 230 (the side of the side member 231), and a lower injection-molding unit 313 b for defining a molding line of the lower part of the side case 230.

A plurality of upper injection-molding units 311 b, a plurality of side injection-molding units 312 b, and a plurality of lower injection-molding units 313 b may be provided. For example, two lower injection-molding units 313 b may be provided to form a parting line between the central part and the edge part of the side case 230.

In some implementations, the accessory manufacturing apparatus includes a fastening device for maintaining coupling force between the injection-molding units 311 b, 312 b, and 313 b. The fastening device enables the injection-molding units 311 b, 312 b, and 313 b to be coupled to and separated from each other. In some implementations, the accessory manufacturing apparatus includes a structure for supplying a material to be injection-molded into the injection-molding machine 310 b.

The side injection-molding unit 312 b defines a molding line of the upper end of the side member 231 and, at the same time, a molding line of the side surface of the side member 231 (the inclined surface that becomes gradually distant from the central axis X in the upward direction). The side injection-molding unit 312 b includes a first side injection-molding unit 312 b 1 and a second side injection-molding unit 312 b 2, which are separable from each other in the horizontal direction (e.g., in the forward and rearward direction or in the leftward and rightward direction). Parting lines of the first side injection-molding unit 312 b 1 and the second side injection-molding unit 312 b 2 are formed vertically on the side surface of the side member 231.

In addition, the upper injection-molding unit 311 b is removed upward after the injection-molded product is manufactured. Consequently, the parting lines PLb of the upper injection-molding unit 311 b and the side injection-molding unit 312 b are formed on the inner edge. As a result, the side injection-molding unit 312 b may be removed. At the same time, the inner edge may have an angled corner, and the upper edge E1 may have a curved corner.

In some implementations, the accessory manufacturing method includes a step of injection-molding the side case 230. For example, the accessory manufacturing method includes an injection-molding step of injection-molding the side member 231.

The injection-molding step includes a step of supplying a material to be injection-molded into an injection-molding machine in which surfaces defining the upper end of the side member 231, the upper edge E1, and the upper part of the side surface of the side member 231 are integrally connected to each other.

At the injection-molding step, a parting line PLb is formed on only the inner edge of the side member 231, among the upper end of the side member 231, the upper edge E1, and the inner edge of the side member 231.

The injection-molding step includes a step of removing the injection-molding machine, in which the surfaces defining the upper end of the side member 231, the upper edge E1, and the upper part of the side surface of the side member 231 are integrally connected to each other, from the injection-molded product.

The remaining steps of the accessory manufacturing method are obvious from the functions of the accessory manufacturing apparatus described above, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

In some implementations, the accessory may be attached to an apparatus or may be placed in an environment so as to realize IoT functions without replacing the apparatus or reconfiguring the environment.

In some implementations, it may be possible to realize desired IoT environments even in the case in which various kinds of products having different standards are provided as the result of the accessory being attached to an apparatus or being placed in an environment.

In some implementations, the accessory may include a sensor module and a main body separably coupled to a container. In these examples, it may be possible to sense the surrounding circumstances at a desired position.

In some implementations, the accessory may include a remote control module. In these cases, it may be possible to remotely control an apparatus based on information received over a network.

In some implementations, the accessory may include a container having an external coupling portion. In the case in which the optimal disposition of the main body is preset, therefore, the main body may be easily separated from the container and may then be coupled to the container again without additional effects.

In some implementations, the accessory may include a direction-setting portion. In these examples, it may be possible to easily set the optimal direction of the main body. Particularly, even in the state in which the main body is not coupled to the container, it is possible to set the optimal direction of the main body during the attachment of the container.

In some implementations, the accessory may include an attachment-detachment groove and attachment-detachment protrusions. When the main body is coupled to the container in the state in which the direction of the main body is not set, the main body is incompletely coupled to the container (e.g., one of the attachment-detachment protrusions is inserted into the attachment-detachment groove). As a result, the rotation and movement of the main body are guided until the main body is completely coupled to the container (all of the attachment-detachment protrusions are inserted into the attachment-detachment groove).

In some implementations, the accessory may include a reflector or a waterproof member. Consequently, it is possible to easily realize variable IoT environments as needed under various environments and conditions.

In some implementations, in a state in which a plurality of container is attached to a plurality of positions, one or more main bodies may be selectively coupled to the containers. In these cases, it may be possible to realize variable IoT environments using a limited number of accessories. For example, two main bodies may be attached to a door and a robot cleaner, and then the main bodies may be attached to a washing machine and a television as needed. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An accessory comprising: a main body including a communication module that is configured to communicate with a predetermined network; and a container including a main body-coupling portion that is configured to separably couple to the main body, wherein the main body comprises at least one of (i) a remote control module that is configured to transmit an optical signal for controlling a predetermined apparatus within a predetermined range or (ii) a sensor module that is configured to sense information about a surrounding environment, and wherein the container comprises an external coupling portion that is configured to couple the container to an external object, wherein the main body includes the remote control module, wherein the remote control module comprises a control signal light-emitting unit that is configured to transmit the optical signal from the main body in a transmission direction, and wherein the container comprises a direction-setting portion that is configured, based on the container being coupled to the external object, to guide the main body to a set position in which the transmission direction is aligned to a predetermined direction.
 2. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the main body includes the sensor module, wherein the sensor module comprises a proximity sensor that is configured to sense a distance along a transmission direction between the main body and an object.
 3. The accessory of claim 2, further comprising a reflector having: a reflective surface that is configured to reflect a predetermined optical sensing signal; and an attachment surface configured to be coupled to a surface, wherein the proximity sensor comprises: a proximity signal light-emitting unit that is configured to transmit the predetermined optical sensing signal in the transmission direction, and a proximity signal light-receiving unit that is configured to receive the predetermined optical sensing signal that has been reflected from the reflector.
 4. The accessory of claim 2, wherein the container further comprises a plurality of containers configured to be coupled to predetermined external objects that are located at different positions from each other, wherein the sensor module comprises a plurality of sensors that are configured to sense different target information from each other, wherein the main body comprises a controller that is configured to perform a state change from a first state to a second state, wherein the controller is configured, based on the controller being in the first state, to transmit a first target information sensed by a first sensor among the plurality of sensors over the predetermined network, and wherein the controller is configured, based on the controller being in the second state, to transmit a second target information sensed by a second sensor among the plurality of sensors over the predetermined network.
 5. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the container comprises a direction-indicating portion that is configured to visually indicate the transmission direction.
 6. The accessory of claim 1, wherein: the direction-setting portion comprises a direction-setting protrusion or a direction-setting recess that is configured to receive the direction-setting protrusion, the main body comprises one of the direction-setting protrusion and the direction-setting recess, the container comprises the other of the direction-setting protrusion and the direction- setting recess, the direction-setting protrusion is configured to engage into the direction-setting recess based on the transmission direction being aligned to the predetermined direction, and the direction-setting protrusion is offset from a central axis of the main body and the container.
 7. The accessory of claim 6, wherein: the main body includes one of an attachment-detachment groove and an attachment-detachment protrusion, the attachment-detachment protrusion being configured to be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove based on the main body being coupled to the container, the container includes the other of the attachment-detachment protrusion and the attachment-detachment groove, the attachment-detachment groove extends in a circumferential direction of the main body or the container, and the attachment-detachment protrusion includes a first attachment-detachment protrusion disposed at a location opposite the direction-setting protrusion with respect to the central axis.
 8. The accessory of claim 7, wherein the first attachment-detachment protrusion is configured, based on (i) the direction-setting protrusion being disengaged from the direction-setting recess and (ii) the first attachment-detachment protrusion inserting into the attachment-detachment groove, to be slidable along the attachment-detachment groove in the circumferential direction by rotating the main body relative to the container about the central axis.
 9. The accessory of claim 7, wherein the attachment-detachment protrusion further comprises a second attachment-detachment protrusion that is configured, based on the direction-setting protrusion being engaged into the direction-setting recess, to insert into the attachment-detachment groove.
 10. The accessory of claim 1, wherein: the main body includes one of an attachment-detachment groove and an attachment- detachment protrusion, the attachment-detachment protrusion being configured to be inserted into the attachment-detachment groove based on the main body being coupled to the container, the container includes the other of the attachment-detachment protrusion and the attachment-detachment groove, the attachment-detachment groove extends in a circumferential direction of the main body or the container, and the attachment-detachment protrusion comprises a plurality of attachment-detachment protrusions arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.
 11. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the main body comprises the remote control module and the sensor module.
 12. The accessory of claim 11, wherein the container further comprises a plurality of containers configured to be coupled to predetermined external objects that are located at different positions from each other, wherein the main body comprises a controller that is configured to control transmission of sensed information over the predetermined network and operation of the remote control module.
 13. A network system including a plurality of accessories according to claim 11, the network system further comprising a server that is configured to: receive a first information from a first main body about a surrounding environment of the first main body, and transmit a signal to a second main body to control an apparatus located at the second main body based on the received first information.
 14. The network system of claim 13, further comprising a third main body, wherein the server is configured to: receive a third information from a third body about a surrounding environment of the third main body, and transmit a signal to the second main body to control the apparatus located at the second main body based on the received first information and third information.
 15. The accessory of claim 1, further comprising: a detachable waterproof member that is configured to seal a boundary that is defined between the main body and the container based on the main body being coupled to the container, wherein the main body has an upper edge that has a perimeter greater than a perimeter of the boundary, wherein the container has a lower edge that has a perimeter greater than a perimeter of the boundary, and wherein the waterproof member comprises a detachable elastic band that surrounds side surfaces between the upper edge of the main body and the lower edge of the container based on the main body being coupled to the container.
 16. The accessory of claim 15, wherein the side surface of the main body is inclined in a first direction with respect to a central axis of the main body, the side surface becoming closer to the central axis from the upper edge of the main body toward the boundary, and the side surface of the container is inclined in a second direction opposite the first direction with respect to the central axis, the side surface becoming closer to the central axis from the lower edge of the container toward the boundary.
 17. An accessory comprising: a main body including a communication module that is configured to communicate with a predetermined network; and a plurality of containers, each of the plurality of containers including a main body-coupling portion that is configured to separably couple to the main body, the main body being configured to selectably coupled to one of the plurality of containers, wherein each of the plurality of containers comprises a direction-setting portion that is configured, based on the main body being coupled to the container, to set the main body to a predetermined position relative to the container. 